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Giant Lantern of Pampanga
Giant Lantern of Pampanga
Brief History:
1762 – 1764 – the British invaded the Philippines and La Naval Fiesta was originated
from victory in naval battle where lanterns where lighted in Bacolor City.
1900 –the tradition of “Lubenas” was continued after the Provincial Capital of Pampanga
(Bacolor) was transferred to San Fernando (August 1904).
- The Lubenas which is a religious activity was the predecessor of the Modern day
Giant Festival. They did this during Simbang Gabi (December 16-24).
- The parade of lights started in Bacolor with people joining the procession around
community before going to church.
- Then these paruls were brought around each barrio in procession to their village.
- And before the midnight of Christmas Eve, the lanterns were delivered to town
church together with the barrio patrons symbolizing the Bethlehem’s guiding star
on that Christmas Eve.
The lanterns of San Fernando are different from the other lanterns because of its 4 distinct
main parts:
The tradition continues to evolve as it became bigger and the designs are more intricate. In
addition, more innovations were introduced:
Later, one big lantern was made for each barangay which was created through a cooperative
effort. Each resident contributed to its construction, from the concept and design to the materials
and labor. Each barangay has a unique way of showcasing the best lights and music together
with the meaningful message about Christmas.
The festival signifies the diverse but united communities of Pampanga. The lantern
symbolizes the unwavering hope of the Filipinos. The interplay of colored lights assures the dark
and cozy night of Christmas Season and the warm ecstatic expression on the people’s faces.
Due to the popularity of festival that showcases the crafted work of arts through
hardwork, creativity, and teamwork of Kampangpangan, the city has been known as the
“Christmas Capital of the Philippines”.
Video presentation
Song (Kumukutitap bumubusilak… hahaha nalipat ko sng title basta dungan na sila
appear sng Lantern).
GIANT LANTERN FESTIVAL OF PAMPANGA
References:
http://www.willexplorephilippines.com/san-fernando-giant-lantern-festival/
http://lanavaldemanila.blogspot.com/2007/03/la-naval-de-bacolor.html
http://www.giantlantern.ph/index.php/10-about-us/history-timeline
https://cityofsanfernando.gov.ph/forvisitors
http://www.odditycentral.com/pics/lighting-up-christmas-the-giant-lantern-festival-of-san-
fernando.html