In line with cultural promotion program of the Philippine Embassy in Vienna, parols (Philippine lanterns) from a Philippine province were again one of the main attractions of the ongoing Christkindlmarkt (Christmas market) in Vienna, Austria.

The official lightning of lanterns from Pampanga province in the Philippines took place on November 15, 2008 in front of Vienna's City Hall.

These lanterns decorate one of the 11 trees in the Rathausplatz in the Christkindlmarktgrounds, Europe’s most child-friendly Christmas market, which features a fun-packed program with something for everyone.

The Vienna Christkindlmarkt runs for six weeks from the third weekend of November to Christmas Day. It attracts an estimated three million tourists from Austria and neighboring countries.

Official of the Vienna Chamber of Commerce told ABS-CBN News that there are several trees decorated with candy sticks, rocking horses, snowmen, snowflakes and much more transform the Rathauspark into an unforgettable winter wonderland.

The officials added, “Last year, the City of Vienna was honored with a very special gift from the Republic of the Philippines. Star lanterns, called parol, are symbolic of the star of Bethlehem, which guided the shepherds and the Three Kings to the birthplace of baby Jesus.

“The breathtaking lanterns are on display again this year. These unique lanterns from the Philippine add more color and festivity to our Advent Festival here in Vienna The parols are found at the left side of the City Hall with tree number 16.

“I hope that Filipinos in Austria will visit the Christkindlmarkt and see for themselves these unique parols.”

Through this project, the Philippine Embassy hopes to continue to promote Philippine culture and to acquaint European visitors with the ingenuity of Philippine lanterns, possibly leading to market opportunities for Philippine exporters.

The Filipino community in Vienna meanwhile is very much proud to share with the Austrian community not only a glimpse of Philippine Christmas but also the artistry and talent of the Filipino.