
San Fernando, Pampanga is famous for its Giant Lantern Festival, but the tradition involves much more than simply displaying enormous lanterns. Specialized teams work on designs, electrical systems, construction, and intricate lighting patterns.
Knowledge about building the lanterns is passed between generations of local artisans. Different communities and families have developed their own techniques and design approaches.
The lanterns can contain thousands of individual lights arranged to create elaborate moving patterns.
UNESCO currently lists Giant lantern-making for the Giant Lantern Festival of San Fernando, Pampanga as a Philippine element pending priority treatment.
© UNESCO