Join us for a transformative journey at

SAN FRANCISCO’S ANNUAL PAROL LANTERN FESTIVAL

The parol lantern is the quintessential Filipino symbol of hope, blessings, luck, and peace, during the holiday season, and can be found lighting up windows in Filipino homes throughout the world.

The Parol Lantern Festival takes place at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts every December. We invite you to participate in the Taste of Christmas, Parol Stroll, and Tala Awards and come together in the spirit of community.

PRE-REGISTRATION FOR PAROL LANTERN FESTIVAL IS NOW CLOSED.

Please plan to register for Parol Lantern Festival at the Main Entrance of the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts beginning at 3PM.

Schedule of Events

Taste of Christmas | 3-5PM

Featuring traditional Filipino holiday dishes in the YBCA Forum

Parol Stroll | 5-7PM

A parade of community & professional organizations

Tala Awards | 7-8 PM

Celebrating the decorated parols which reflect the theme.

Live Music & Performances | 3-8PM

Enjoy performances from local Filipino musicians and community members

Family Friendly Activities | 3-4:30 PM

Hosted by the Children's Creativity Museum in the YBCA Lobby

Parol Gallery | 3-8 PM

Take pictures with a gallery of Parol Lanterns provided by SF Farols

Taste of Christmas

3-5PM | YBCA Forum

Please note, pre-registration does not guarantee a Taste of Christmas ticket to the free sampling of traditional Filipino Foods.

If you would like to participate in the Taste of Christmas, please plan to arrive early. Samples will be available until supplies last.

Enjoy a free sampling of traditional Filipino desserts and delicacies served during the Christmas season that is sure to take your tastebuds on a trip back to the Philippines. Since the very first Parol Lantern Festival, community food vendors have contributed to the Taste of Christmas!

Samples are provided by our own community vendors such as Kababayan Restaurant, Mestiza, Tita Pearl, and Ate Tess of JT’s Restaurant.

Sandwiches from Izzy and Wooks will be available for purchase following Taste of Christmas in the YBCA Forum.

Live Music & Cultural Performances

3-8PM | YBCA Forum

Enjoy performances from local Filipino and community members including Manilatown Ancestral Ensemble, Galing Bata, Filipinx, KulinTaiko, and West Bay Moms.

2024 Parol Lantern Festival - Performers (Instagram Post).png

Parol Gallery

3-6 PM | YBCA Forum

Come view and enjoy a gallery display of parol lanterns imported from the Philippines. Parols by SHOP Farol and parols created by community organizations competing for the Tala Awards will also be on display in the YBCA Forum.

Parol Stroll

6-7PM | Jesse Square to Yerba Buena Gardens

Join our stroll contingents across the Yerba Buena Gardens as we showcase all of our parol lanterns!

ACCESSIBILITY

All YBCA public entrances are accessible. At the Gallery Forum Building, both the 701 Mission St and Garden Esplanade entrances have electric push-button doors. There will be reserved seating with tables for seniors or people with mobility issues available during 3-5PM; and additional seating throughout the program.

COVID PROTOCOL FOR PAROL LANTERN FESTIVAL:

YBCA is following the Health & Safety protocols set forth by the city of San Francisco.

Masks are strongly recommended for visitors indoors at YBCA, except when actively eating .

If you are feeling unwell or exhibiting any cold or COVID-19 symptoms, we ask that you cancel your visit to YBCA and take the time to rest and recover.

PLANNING YOUR TRIP

MUNI: For Bus Lines along Market St., disembark at Market Street and 4th Street/Powell Street. On Mission Street, turn left into the Yerba Buena Gardens.

BART: For all BART Lines, disembark at the Powell Street Station. Exit to 4th and Market streets. On Mission Street turn left into Yerba Buena Gardens.

PARKING: If traveling by car, we recommend parking at 5th Street Garage on 833 Mission Street, SF, CA is walking distance (two blocks from YBCA).

Donate

Your generous donation fuels the brilliance of the Parol Festival, supporting our mission to celebrate and share the richness of Filipino culture. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us illuminate this cultural extravaganza, ensuring its success for all to enjoy. Together, let's ignite the spirit of giving and keep the festival aglow for years to come. Your support creates magic!

DONATE HERE

Volunteer Opportunity

Volunteer at the Parol Festival and immerse yourself in vibrant traditions, forge meaningful connections, and play a pivotal role in crafting unforgettable moments for everyone. Join us in weaving the threads of tradition into an experience that will leave a lasting impact. Let's create cherished memories together!

VOLUNTEER HERE