Get ready to craft your very own parol, the iconic Filipino star lantern that lights up the holiday season with hope, blessings, and community spirit!

The Parol, or Filipino Lantern, is the most visible symbol of the holiday season in the Philippines. It symbolizes hope, peace, joy, and light during the holiday season.

Its glow carries a deeper meaning, too: in earlier times, a lantern hanging in a home's open window was a signal of welcome letting travelers know they'd find warmth and refuge inside.

For Filipinos in San Francisco, the Parol represents a shared heritage and ritual that brings the Filipino community together in the South of Market.

Come make something beautiful, learn a piece of Filipino tradition, and celebrate together as a community! See the following dates:

November 8 Workshop, 12-4, SFMOMA, (151 3rd St)
November 13 Workshop, 4:00-8p, Bayanihan Community Center (1010 Mission St)
November 22 Workshop, 1:30-5:30p, Bayanihan Community Center (1010 Mission St)
December 6 Workshop, 12-4p, SFMOMA, (151 3rd St)

Parol Workshops are donation-based to support the costs of materials - please use prompts above to reserve your spot. If you would like to participate, but cannot at this time make a financial contribution, please email christine@somapilipinas.org.

This workshop is designed for all ages, so bring the whole family. We'll provide everything you need to build your own star-shaped lantern, which you can then proudly carry in SOMA Pilipinas' 24th Annual Parol Lantern Festival on December 12, 2026!

About SOMA Pilipinas

SOMA Pilipinas is officially recognized by the City of San Francisco and State of California as the center and cultural hub for the thriving Filipino community, culture, arts and activism. SOMA Pilipinas’ mission is to stop the displacement of Filipino residents and cultural institutions, raise our visibility through cultural celebration and public art, and advance racial equity in solidarity with other communities.

Parol Workshops 2026