The Biggest Parol outside the Philippines
LOS ANGELES — On November 22, 2025, members of the Filipino community in Los Angeles gathered for one of the season’s most festive celebrations: the Paskong Pinoy BER-kada Fiesta and Giant Parol Unveiling at Island Pacific.
The event was attended by San Fernando, Pampanga Mayor Vilma Caluag, Island Pacific CEO Maite Defensor, founder Nino Jeff Lim, Krista Lim, members of the Lim family and Island Pacific chairman Matt Ranillo. Their presence and support helped anchor the celebration, which brought together families, friends and community groups eager to welcome the holiday season with familiar Filipino traditions — food, music, games and the warmth of being surrounded by fellow kababayans.
The centerpiece of the festival was a 24-foot high, 20-foot wide parol handcrafted by the Quiwa family, sixth-generation parol makers from Pampanga, long recognized for preserving the province’s artisanal lantern-making tradition. The giant installation lit up the venue during its unveiling, prompting applause, photos and cheers from the crowd.
Throughout the day, guests were welcomed with festive décor, twinkling lights and Filipino dishes served onsite. A toy drive collected new and unwrapped gifts for children in need, while families gathered for bingo games and children’s activities spread across the area. Many attendees said the atmosphere reminded them of holiday gatherings back home.
A symbol rooted in Filipino history
The parol’s presence at the event also carried cultural and historical significance. The word parol comes from the Spanish farol, meaning lantern. Its origins trace back to the Spanish colonial era, when lanterns lit by candles or kerosene guided Filipinos walking to Simbang Gabi, the nine dawn masses leading up to Christmas Day. Over generations, the parol evolved into a representation of the Star of Bethlehem and became a national symbol of hope, faith and Filipino resilience.
As sunset approached, anticipation grew for the official lighting. The massive lantern burst into a vivid display of colors, illuminating the crowd and casting a glow across the venue. Attendees paused to take photos or simply watch the moment, which organizers said symbolized unity and the enduring spirit of a Filipino Christmas.
Festivities continued late into the evening with an After Glow Party from 10 p.m. to midnight, featuring dancing, music and Filipino-inspired holiday cocktails. Dancers from different backgrounds joined an open-style cypher, with performers @justjet and @
The centerpiece of the late-night event was the BER-Kada Battles, a one-on-one dance showdown that energized the crowd and transformed the outdoor area into a lively community dance arena.
Public viewing through the holiday season
The giant parol is available for public viewing at Island Pacific Los Angeles, 4641 Santa Monica Boulevard, where it lights up nightly from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. The installation will remain on display until January 3, 2026, giving families and visitors an opportunity to witness what organizers describe as the biggest parol outside the Philippines.
