FAIRFIELD – On Oct. 24, 2025 the Pamana Club, Solano College’s Filipino American and AAPI Student Union, in collaboration with the Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander Student Achievement Program (AANHPI), hosted a Parol-Making Workshop.
The event was inspired for students to get into the holiday spirit by making bright lanterns called parols. The parol, which is a star-shaped lantern, is one of the most famous symbols of Christmas in the Philippines.
The parol first appeared in the 16th century while the Philippines was under Spanish rule as a light for people to find their way to dawn masses called Simbang Gabi. Over time, the parol came to represent the Star of Bethlehem as well as light, hope and community within the long Christmas celebration in the Philippines.
Kalena Gordon, the club secretary, shared her knowledge about the connection of parols to Filipino traditions and their cultural significance.
“Parols are used during Christmas time in the Philippines, Christmas starts in September and actually ends January 6th.” Gordon stated.
She continued by sharing that her grandparents made parols when they lived in the Philippines.
After her remarks, the conversation turned to how these events impact the campus.
The president of the club, Jay M. remarked that events like this bring the campus community together and advance cultural awareness.
“We have a good history of bringing people together”
The president noted the fact that the club has significantly grown, indicating there were 40 participants at their last meeting, compared to the first meeting when only one attended.
He also highlighted how Filipino culture depicts creativity and resilience. As parols are made from discarded materials and turned into meaningful decorations.
He wishes participants leave the event with a better understanding and appreciation of Filipino culture and history.
Attendees of the event also shared their experiences participating in the workshop that helped them engage in Filipino culture.
Student Jumari Dotson shared that the experience was an enjoyable way to learn about Filipino history and traditions.
“It’s a fun, engaging way of doing it, also not like a history lesson,” Dotson noted.
Another student Elijah McCalister shared that events like this boost cultural awareness on campus.
“You need more of this stuff,” McCalister exclaimed.
Mercedes Chad, a Solano College alumni, said she was happy to see Filipino culture on campus.
She went on to explain that it was so much fun because she was able to do something traditional from where her parents were from, and it was so cool that her mom got to do it with her too.
When asked how she would describe the atmosphere of the event, she said simply, “Feels like home.”
Located in The Nest in room 437 from 3:30 to 5:30 pm at Solano College and was attended by students and community members to celebrate Filipino culture and tradition.
