The Joyous Tradition of Christmas Lanterns in the Philippines

In the Philippines, Christmas is an especially joyous time of year. As soon as November rolls around, you can feel the festive spirit begin to take over the country. One of the most beloved traditions during the holiday season is the Christmas lantern, which is known as a parol in Tagalog. These beautiful luminaries are often seen hanging from porches, windows, and gateways, or even carried by children in the streets.

The Christmas lantern was originally inspired by the Star of Bethlehem that guided the Three Kings to the manger where Jesus was born. Over the years, the parols have evolved and now come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. Some are made of simple paper with intricate designs, while others feature more elaborate materials like capiz shells and colorful beads. No matter the design, these parols are a beautiful reminder of the spirit of the season.

A Symbol of Faith and Hope

The Christmas lanterns that adorn the Philippines during the holiday season serve as a powerful symbol for the Filipino people. The bright lights not only represent the Star of Bethlehem, but also provide a tangible representation of faith and hope. For many Filipinos, the parols serve as a reminder to keep their faith alive, especially during times of hardship.

The Christmas lanterns also bring families together, as they work together to create a beautiful work of art to celebrate the season. In some areas, the lanterns are even used in a friendly competition, where neighbors try to outdo each other’s decorations. This tradition is a great way to bring joy to the community and create a sense of unity.

Making a Parol

Making a parol is not as difficult as it may sound. All you need are some basic materials such as bamboo sticks, paper, glue, scissors, and colorful decorations. The most difficult part is creating the intricate designs, which come in a range of traditional, modern, and abstract styles. Once the design is finalized, it’s time to assemble the frame and cover it with colorful paper. Finally, the decorations are applied to give the finished product its unique character.

The Christmas lanterns created in the Philippines can be seen all around the world. Every year, thousands of Filipinos living in different countries bring their parols with them, bringing a bit of their culture with them wherever they go. This tradition is a testament to the strength of the Filipino spirit and the joy of the Christmas season.

Parol The Filipino Christmas Lantern In Philippines