The traditional Filipino New Year's Eve midnight feast is called Media Noche.
Media Noche means “midnight” in Spanish and refers to the celebratory meal eaten at the transition from December 31 to January 1. Filipino families commonly gather around a festive table, often serving foods associated with prosperity, health, and family unity. A widely known custom is to display or eat twelve round fruits, with the twelve fruits representing the months of the coming year.
Round shapes are linked symbolically with coins and wealth. The exact fruits and dishes vary by household, region, and budget, so there is no single official menu. Other foods may include noodles for long life, rice cakes, roasted meats, and sweets.
Media Noche is distinct from Noche Buena, the Christmas Eve meal eaten on December 24. The Spanish vocabulary reflects the Philippines' historical connections, but Media Noche is a living Filipino family tradition rather than a required religious observance. Some families celebrate with a late dinner, while others serve food immediately after midnight.