ABOUT THE WORKSHOP

Derived from the Spanish word farol (lantern), the parol is a beloved symbol of light, hope, and community in the Philippines. Its iconic star shape has lit up homes, streets, and hearts during the holidays for generations — especially in the Philippines and the diaspora, where some families begin decorating as early as September.

Join teaching artist Alex J. Cabalu for a hands-on workshop exploring the history and significance of the parol, the environmental climate and resourcefulness of the Philippines, and how to create your own unique parol using recycled and accessible materials — bringing it to life with vibrant designs just in time for the holidays! 🎄

COMMUNITY GUIDELINES

PARTICIPANTS:​
  • RSVP is required! Only 25 spaces available.
  • Free & open to all ages.
  • Participants under 10 must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Materials provided.
  • OPTIONAL: We will be using some recycled food packaging (plastic mylar &/or paper) as some of our materials to decorate the parols. We will save some of our own single-use plastic packaging to contribute to the workshop. We also welcome participants to bring their own, if they'd like to share & help us reduce waste on this planet. This is completely OPTIONAL & participants are not required to bring anything if they don't want to or can't.
  • Photo/video will take place during the workshop.
  • Workshop takes place from 1-3:30PM. Please arrive 15 minutes early to get checked in, or feel free to come earlier to enjoy a treat at Secret Garden or a meal at their Michelin-recognized Mexican restaurant across the street, Carnes Asadas Pancho Lopez.
  • Email [email protected] if you need to cancel your reservation. Please try to notify us at least 24-48 hours in advance if you need to cancel, so we can contact someone on the wait list.

​ACCESSIBILITY:
  • Masks will be required — regardless of vaccination status.​
  • A limited amount of PPE will be distributed.
  • Please stay home if you feel any COVID, flu or cold symptoms.
  • Workshop will take place outdoors in Secret Garden's cozy patio.
  • Venue is wheelchair accessible (including restroom).
  • Instruction will be in English.
  • We welcome all cultures and experience levels to join us. No prior knowledge required, just the ability to work with your hands.​​
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GETTING THERE:
  • Workshop will take place in-person at Secret Garden in Lincoln Heights, Northeast Los Angeles. 3321 Pasadena Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90031 
  • 5 min walk from Heritage Square Metro A Line Station.
  • Near Metro bus lines (45, 81, 90, 94, 182, 251, 296) & Lincoln/Heights Chinatown Dash bus.
  • Free street parking.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

ALEX J. CABALU is a dedicated educator, coach, and artist with a passion for empowering youth, both in and out of the classroom.

With over 16 years of experience, he’s worn many hats: English teacher, varsity basketball coach, youth mentor, and residential advisor. From teaching U.S. government to guiding students in sequential art, Alex blends academic rigor with creative spirit.

An artist at heart, he works in painting, drawing, chalk art design, and printmaking, holding a B.A. in Art Theory and Practice from Northwestern University. Whether in schools or through community-driven projects, Alex stays rooted in service, creativity, and care.
Thank you to our sponsors for helping us make this free community building event possible:
🌸 Secret Garden & Perri+Ren, venue sponsors
🌸 Coachella Art Studios, materials sponsor
🌸 Artist Resistance Through Solidarity (ARTS) Foundation, funding support
🌸 Mask Bloc LA, free PPE distribution