The 2nd annual Eagle Rock Parol Festival on Saturday, Dec. 9 honored a beloved, colorful Filipino tradition during the holidays.
The free festival, held at the Eagle Rock Plaza in Los Angeles, was organized by the Association for the Advancement of Filipino American Arts and Culture (FilAm ARTS) and SoCal Filipinos; two community nonprofits aiming to preserve tradition and connect Filipino Americans across the region.
Parols are illuminated star-shaped lanterns, typically made of bamboo and colorful paper, sometimes capiz shells. They are a central part of Christmas in the Philippines, with the lanterns often hung in homes and public spaces, according to event organizers.
The event featured Philippine parols for sale, with part of the proceeds going toward FilAm ARTS, and a community toy drive.
Activities included live music and dancing, local vendors, and cultural performances from the Dalisay Filipino American Dance Company, Fil-Trio and more. Food vendors included Dough Momma, Empanadas Di Ba and LAV’s Asian Cuisine.