PR-155-2024
9 December 2024, Ottawa – Filipino-Canadians and Canadians in Ottawa and nearby areas gathered once again to celebrate the joyous holiday season at the second edition of Paskong Pinoy sa Ottawa on 7 December 2024, held at Peter A. Herrndorf Place, National Arts Centre (NAC).
One of the highlights of the event was the highly anticipated Parol-Making Workshop, where participants of all ages had the opportunity to learn the art of creating traditional Filipino Christmas lanterns, known as parol.
In her brief remarks, the Embassy’s Deputy Head of Mission Myca Magnolia Fischer said, “We are one million strong diaspora here in Canada and it is important that we share our brand of Christmas with the rest of Canada. Christmas is the longest and liveliest fiesta in the Philippines, and the parol is an iconic symbol of the Filipino Christmas. ” Ms. Fischer invited the guests to join the parol-making workshop sponsored by the Embassy and to take advantage of the presence of those selling Filipino delicacies and products.
In this hands-on parol-making workshop, the Escares couple, Tito Ed and Tita Nejie, guided the attendees through the steps of creating their very own parol, using various materials such as star bamboo, decorative paper, and elements. Participants learned about the history and cultural significance of the parol while crafting their unique lanterns, which will brighten their homes/spaces during the festive season.
The workshop attracted people of all ages who are eager to discover the beauty of making the Filipino Christmas lantern. The parol-making workshop was also a great way for newcomers to connect with long-standing members of the Filipino-Canadian community, fostering a sense of unity and cultural exchange.
The 2nd Paskong Pinoy sa Ottawa was jointly organized by the Philippine Centre Canada (PCC) and the National Arts Centre (NAC), highlighting their collective effort to bring Filipino Christmas traditions to the heart of Ottawa. It is an opportunity for the Filipinos to share their Christmas culture to Canadians and other foreign nationalities in the capital by coming together to enjoy festive activities, music, Christmas handicrafts, holiday goodies and gifts, and other services while honoring the values of bayanihan (community spirit) and Filipino heritage. PCC made the event enjoyable through raffle draws with prizes such as parol, and gift cards. END.