We take Christmas very seriously in the Philippines. Since we celebrate the longest Christmas season in the world, beginning September 1 up to the Feast of the Epiphany after the New Year, it is no surprise that we have a multitude of traditions and practices to celebrate the holiday.

One of our most beloved traditions is the Parol (say it as pah-ROL) or star lantern. Dating back to the Spanish occupation of the Philippines, Parols are lanterns used during the nine-day Christmas novena processions. They were also used to light the way to church for the novena dawn masses. Traditionally made from bamboo and paper, today we feature a beautiful parol made of LEGO. This model is built by Reiner Comentan for LEGO’s Build to Give Campaign and the Brick Trader’s Community #btcstars build challenge.

Parol or Star Lantern by Reiner Comentan

Measuring 6.5 inches across, this lovely build closely resembles the traditional Philippine parols that decorate pretty much the entire country (and Philippine communities across the globe) during Christmas. The colors almost make it look like it is luminescent like a lantern, and the geometric shaping nails the overall feel. Here is a glimpse of what it looks like along the streets in the Philippines during the holidays so you can see how the LEGO Parol fits in.

Parols for sale along a street in the Philippines. Image from Tatler Asia.

Reiner shared the pieces he used to achieve such a geometric look in the photo below. The use of Modified 6 x 6 Hexagonal Plates with Pin Hole (Part 27255) for the body and Hero Factory Weapon - Ammo Belt (Part 98567) is particularly inspired! You can see how these elements really provide flexibility so most of the studs-to-stud connections can flex or rotate to the desired angle.

All the parts used by Reiner to build his LEGO Parol. Photo by Reiner Comentan.

When asked why he chose to build a Parol instead of a more traditional star, Reiner had this to say:

“I chose to build the Parol because it represents a uniquely Filipino Christmas tradition. I grew up making them from scratch using sticks and cellophane paper for school projects when I was young, and in friendly Parol-making competitions at work and as Christmas decorations in the office. LEGO provides me with another medium to show my Filipino heritage and my love for Christmas ornaments.”

Thanks for sharing this awesome tradition with the AFOL community, Rein! Maligayang Pasko!

What holiday builds have you made this 2021? Have you seen any new MOCs celebrating the holiday that have been particularly festive? Please do comment below, we’d love to hear from you!

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