How to make a Parol (Philippine Star Lantern)

Parol is a big part of the Philippines’ Christmas tradition. You can see them everywhere on the streets and houses starting in the month of September all the way until the celebration of the Three Kings in January as it symbolizes the bright star that led them to the baby Jesus. It’s originally constructed using bamboo and Japanese paper, and are illuminated with candles, oil lamps, or carbide lamps. Modern parols can be made using other materials such as plastic, metal, and capiz shells and are usually illuminated with electric lighting.