In celebration of the holiday season, Lito Asuncion returns to the Lyman Museum to present a workshop on the making of the parol, a Filipino star-shaped Christmas lantern that is illuminated and hung outside homes in many parts of the world.
The origins of the parol can be found in the Mexican piñata. The piñata came to Spain from Italy in the 1300s, spread to Mexico, and finally came to the Philippines when Spaniards brought Christianity to the islands. The earliest parol were traditionally made from simple materials such as bamboo sticks, Japanese rice paper, crepe paper, and a candle or coconut oil lamp for illumination.
The present-day parol can take many different shapes and forms but is still a recognizable symbol to many Filipinos and represents the Star of Bethlehem. For Filipinos in many areas, making a parol, decorating it, and lighting the lantern is an expression of shared faith and hope. Celebrate the Advent and Christmas season at your own home with a beautiful parol!
The workshop will be offered on Saturday, November 25, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. The cost is $10 for Museum members, $15.00 for nonmembers, with all materials provided. Please call the Museum (935-5021 ex. 101) by Wednesday, November 22 to register and reserve your spot in advance.
