New Westminster, BC – November 17, 2024 – The Inarte Society, in partnership with the City of New Westminster, successfully hosted the 2nd Annual Pinoy Krismas Tiangge and Parol Making Workshop at the Queensborough Community Centre on November 17, 2024. This festive event celebrated Filipino culture, bringing together the community to enjoy a day filled with holiday spirit, tradition, and creativity.
The Pinoy Krismas Tiangge, a Filipino-style Christmas market, showcased a wide variety of local vendors offering unique crafts, food, and holiday gifts. Attendees had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the flavors and traditions of the Philippines, with offerings ranging from handmade Filipino delicacies to beautiful Christmas ornaments. The market provided a festive atmosphere, bringing the warmth and joy of Filipino culture to New Westminster as part of the city’s ongoing commitment to cultural exchange.
A key highlight of the event was the Parol Making Workshop, where participants of all ages learned how to create their own traditional Filipino Christmas lanterns, known as “parols.” Parols, which symbolize hope, light, and the Filipino Christmas spirit, were brought to life through hands-on instruction, allowing families and individuals to connect with Filipino traditions in a creative way.
“We are thrilled to partner once again with the City of New Westminster for this second annual event,” said Lita Cabal, a representative from the Inarte Society. “The Pinoy Krismas Tiangge and Parol Making Workshop are not only a celebration of Filipino culture but also a way to bring the community together during this special time of year. It’s heartwarming to see so many people, from various backgrounds, come together to share in the joy of the season.”
The event was well-attended by people from the communities who enjoyed both the market and the interactive cultural workshops. With the support of the City of New Westminster, this event provided a platform for local vendors and artists to showcase their work while also promoting a greater appreciation for Filipino traditions and values.
This year’s successful event marks the 2nd annual celebration, and the Inarte Society looks forward to continuing its partnership with the City of New Westminster to bring more cultural events to the community in the future.