House of The Philippines

:-)
WHAT’S THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY WITHOUT PAROLS?
«The word parol (pronounced „pah-​roll“ with a rolling „r“) comes from the Spanish word for lantern, farol.»
Parol Making at the House of Philippines happend just a few weeks ago, and its going to become an annual event with Johnny’s boys! I’m hoping Unilocal gets a clue and helps grow this holiday event.
Who doesn’t like a little ethnic culture in their lives?
Who doesn’t want a little Filipino in em?!
(GASP! Oh yes I did say that.)
And what a great opportunity for me to introduce more of the Filipino culture to my Italian boys?
This year the Parol making was ironically held in the House of Italy, and proved the largest showing yet. There were two very friendly hosts Rom and Patricia, who warmly welcomed, and guided us to the large table with all the necessary equipment needed to make these beautiful and delicate bamboo star lanterns.
And its FREE!
Let me say it again: FREE!
BUT WHAT IS A PAROL AND WHY MAKE ONE?
«In the Filipino language, a Christmas lantern is called a parol. There’s no greater symbol of the Filipino Christmas spirit than the parol. All through the Christmas season, star-​shaped lanterns can be found hanging outside homes and along the streets of cities and small provincial towns, farms and fishing villages. For Filipinos, making a parol, decorating one and lighting a parol is an expression of shared faith and hope.
The earliest parols were traditionally made from simple materials like bamboo sticks, Japanese rice paper, crêpe paper, and a candle or coconut oil-​lamp for illumination; although the present day parol can take many different shapes and forms. Around Manila, parols made of Capiz shell or plastic illuminate the city. One of the most spectacular innovations can be found in the city of San Fernando where 20 foot tall parols with kaleidoscopic blinking lights are paraded through the streets on truck beds. Whatever the material or shape, the parol is a recognizable symbol to all Filipinos and represents the star of Bethlehem that guided the Three Wise Men to the manger of the newly-​born Jesus Christ.» –
It’s not as easy at it seems, and I felt like an overgrown ogre trying to thread a tiny and fragile needle. Luckily my «native» senses kicked in and before you can say «LUMPIA!» I got my groove on and made two!
Drinks and snacks were offered at this cultural event that now boasted more people; both native islanders and non-​native islanders alike. Next year we’re hoping the whole family can join — the more, the merrier!
4 Woofs! Yay, I’m a fan and now an annual donator to the House of Philippines (Balboa Park San Diego). Enjoy the December Nights when the House of the Philippines again opens to the public (Weekend Of Dec 4^th). There’s nothing like Filipino hospitality, Filipino traditions, and Filipino food! Open your hearts and minds and plan on having a good time.