It’s almost Christmas time! But first, we celebrate Noche Buena, the Filipino Christmas Eve feast. Noche Buena is a time of joy, togetherness, and cherished traditions. And we would like to share one of our families’ newfound tradition of making Philippine parols—a symbol of light and hope—during Noche Buena. Below is a step by step instruction on how we make parols every Noche Buena with our children, and now you can to!
Embracing Two Cultures:
As Filipina-Americans, the holiday season is a poignant reminder of the duality of our identity. Balancing the rich traditions of the Philippines with the unique experiences of being part of the American melting pot can be a challenge. However, the creation of parols serves as a beautiful fusion of these two worlds and something that I can share with my children and their multifaceted heritage.
Building Bridges Through Craft:
In adapting this tradition, Filipino-Americans are not just replicating an age-old custom but also using it as a means to build bridges between generations and cultures. The process of making parols becomes a time for families to bond, share stories, and impart the significance of the lantern in Filipino culture.
Materials and Techniques:
Crafting parols is a hands-on process that involves various materials and techniques. Bamboo frames are carefully shaped into a star, and colorful paper or cellophane is intricately cut and attached to create a vibrant, luminous effect. Families often gather to cut, paste, and assemble, turning the act of creation into a communal experience.
how to make a parol:
Materials you'll need:
Bamboo sticks (at least 6 per star)
Dowels (at least 5)
Colored cellophane or tissue paper
Glue (I like to use a hot glue gun)
Scissors
String or small rubberbands
Optional: Christmas lights or LED candles
Step 1: Gather Materials
Collect all the materials you'll need for making the parol. Ensure you have enough bamboo sticks, dowels, cellophane or tissue paper in various colors, glue, scissors, string or small rubberbands, and optional Christmas lights or LED candles.
Step 2: Prepare the Bamboo Frame
Begin forming the points of the star by connecting two sticks to form a “v” shape. Secure at the point with a rubber band (do not glue!). Do this once more, so you have two sets of connected “v’s”. Take the two “v” shapes and position them across each other to form a new “A” shape, the points should be facing up. Connect the open end with a rubber band. Complete the star shape by adding in one single length stick. Connect to each open end with rubber bands. Carefully adjust the shape of the star so that it is to your liking.
Step 3: Add Small Dowels
Connect the points of the star with small dowels to strengthen the frame. Glue additional bamboo sticks across the points of the star to create a more solid structure. Let the glue dry.
Step 4: Cut Cellophane or Tissue Paper
Cut the colored cellophane or Japanese paper into strips or pieces. The size of the pieces depends on your preference and the size of the parol. You can cut them into long strips or smaller squares.
Step 5: Attach Cellophane or Tissue Paper
Apply glue to the bamboo frame, and carefully attach the cut cellophane or Japanese paper to the frame. Cover each section of the frame with different colors to create a vibrant and colorful effect. Repeat this process until the entire frame is covered.
Step 6: Add Details
If you want to add more details, you can cut additional shapes from the colored paper and glue them onto the parol. Traditional parols often feature intricate patterns and designs.
Step 7: Attach String or Wire
Attach a string or thin wire to one of the points of the star. This will be used to hang the parol. Make sure it's securely attached.
Step 8: Optional - Add Lights
If you want to make your parol glow, you can insert Christmas lights or LED candles through the cellophane or Japanese paper. Be sure to secure the lights in place and conceal the wires.
Step 9: Hang and Enjoy
Hang your finished parol in a prominent place, and enjoy the festive and colorful glow it brings to your home.
Remember to get creative and personalize your parol according to your preferences and the materials you have available.
Chelsey’s (co-owner of Coffee Sarap) daughter holding up her parol that she made on Noche Buena
Conclusion:
In the heart of Filipino-American homes, the glow of handmade parols during Noche Buena symbolizes the warmth of cultural connection. Through this beautiful blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary adaptation, a new holiday tradition is born—one that celebrates the richness of being Filipino-American and the enduring spirit of Noche Buena.
