WHAT IS A PAROL?

We want to bring families and friends closer one lantern at a time. With each household, each lantern we create has the potential to have its own meaning and story behind it. These lanterns are made with the craftsmanship of skilled artisans. This allows for not only the lantern to be passed down, but also the precious memories that come with it.

So what is it?

Handmade Christmas lanterns are often used in many homes in the Philippines to celebrate the Christmas Season

The parol is considered to have begun during the Spanish colonial period in the Philippines when Christianity was introduced to the Filipinos.

In the 1830s, a religious procession called the lubenas was held featuring fish-shaped lanterns named asan, along with a cross-shaped lantern and 12 others, which represented Jesus Christ and his 12 disciples.

Later on, in 1908, Francisco Estanislao, a salt vendor from Bacolor, Pampanga, created a big Christmas lantern, which the people of the town began to call the parol. The word parol came from the Spanish word "farol", which means a “lantern.” The design of the parol is the biblical representation of the Star of Bethlehem that guided the three kings to the manger. This is a strong symbol of Filipino's hope and goodwill during the season

Traditionally, the parols were originally star-shaped and made of bamboo sticks and pale colored Japanese or crepe paper; a candle and coconut oil were used to illuminate the lantern. These lanterns were used as a light to guide the people to the Misa De Gallo, which was on the 12th day before Christmas

As time went by, the parol has evolved into stunning lanterns in different colors, shapes, and sizes. The capiz shell, with its smooth translucent shiny surface, was also used to improve the durability of the parol.

In Pampanga, also known as the “Christmas Capital of the Philippines,” the townspeople celebrate the annual “Giant Lantern Festival,” where the parol is adorned with a lot of small Christmas lights; some even play different music and sounds.