In the Philippines, the Christmas season unofficially begins in September, at the start of the so-called "ber" months. Shopping malls play holiday music, and many families put up decorations long before December.
The parol, a star-shaped lantern, is the most recognisable symbol of a Filipino Christmas. Traditionally made from bamboo and paper, it represents the Star of Bethlehem. The city of San Fernando in Pampanga is famous for its giant lanterns and its annual lantern festival.