As the calendar turns to the "Ber" months, Metro Manila transforms into a vibrant, glowing showcase of Filipino holiday traditions. Leading the charge once again is the iconic Araneta City Christmas Parolan—the city's premier one-stop destination for holiday cheer, artisanal decorations, and festive street eats.
Whether you are looking to revamp your home with sparkling parols (Filipino capiz and LED lanterns) or simply craving a warm serving of freshly cooked bibingka and puto bumbong, the City of Firsts is officially open to welcome you home for the holidays.
What to Expect at the Parolan This Year
Located along General MacArthur Avenue (at the Farmers Market Parking area), this festive bazaar brings together local craftsmen and holiday vendors from across Luzon. Here is what makes a visit to the Parolan special:
Affordable, Handcrafted Filipino Lanterns
From traditional bamboo-and-papel-de-japon lanterns to intricate capiz shells powered by multi-pattern LED lights, the Parolan features thousands of designs catering to every budget and home setup. Purchasing direct from local makers supports small craft businesses while bringing authentic Pinoy warmth into your living room.
Complete Holiday Decor & Accessories
Beyond parols, stalls are filled with Christmas tree ornaments, garlands, nativity sets (Belen), fairy light strands, and outdoor display pieces. It’s the ultimate destination to tick off your holiday decorating shopping list without hopping from store to store.
Classic Yuletide Treats
No trip to the Parolan is complete without a culinary pitstop. The market area features food stalls serving authentic holiday staples:
What to Expect at the Parolan This Year
Located along General MacArthur Avenue (at the Farmers Market Parking area), this festive bazaar brings together local craftsmen and holiday vendors from across Luzon. Here is what makes a visit to the Parolan special:
Affordable, Handcrafted Filipino Lanterns
From traditional bamboo-and-papel-de-japon lanterns to intricate capiz shells powered by multi-pattern LED lights, the Parolan features thousands of designs catering to every budget and home setup. Purchasing direct from local makers supports small craft businesses while bringing authentic Pinoy warmth into your living room.
Complete Holiday Decor & Accessories
Beyond parols, stalls are filled with Christmas tree ornaments, garlands, nativity sets (Belen), fairy light strands, and outdoor display pieces. It’s the ultimate destination to tick off your holiday decorating shopping list without hopping from store to store.
Classic Yuletide Treats
No trip to the Parolan is complete without a culinary pitstop. The market area features food stalls serving authentic holiday staples:
- Bibingka: Rich rice cake cooked in clay pots over hot coals, topped with salted egg, melted butter, and grated coconut.
- Puto Bumbong: Purple glutinous rice steamed in bamboo tubes, smothered in butter, brown sugar, and toasted sesame seeds.
- Warm Sikwate & Tsokolate: Traditional Filipino hot chocolate to sip on while strolling through the lit marketplace.
Visitor Guide & Tips
Read: The City of Firsts: Araneta City Christmas Parolan
- Location: Farmers Market Parking Area, Gen. MacArthur Ave, Araneta City, Cubao, Quezon City.
- Best Time to Visit: Arrive around 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM to see all the lanterns illuminated in their full glory while avoiding peak weekend crowds.
- Payment: Cash is king among stall vendors, though many now accept GCash and Maya.
- Parking & Accessibility: Easily accessible via the MRT-3 and LRT-2 Cubao stations. Ample parking is available throughout Farmers Plaza, Gateway Mall, and surrounding Araneta City parking structures.
Read: The City of Firsts: Araneta City Christmas Parolan
