Winter Wonderland features a Philippine Christmas Tree designed by Isa Thompson

From November 22, 2013 through January 5, 2014, visit the Fernbank Museum to celebrate and experience holiday traditions from the Philippines and all around the world.


About the Philippine Christmas Tree
Simbang Gabi (Dawn Mass) is celebrated throughout the Philippines from December 16-25.  Catholic churches across the country open doors before daybreak for special Mass services.  Five pointed star lantern (parol) adorned as tree topper and around the tree symbolizes the Star of Bethlehem and the birth of Jesus Christ.  Originally illuminated by candles, parol lights the path of those attending in areas before there was electricity.

About the Designer
Isa Thompson is the owner of Your Flowers by Isabel.  Her passion for flowers was realized in her own wedding in the Philippines.  With a Masters in Business Management from AIM (Asian Institute of Management-Harvard Affiliate, Manila, Philippines), she runs the company with the loving support of her husband. 

"Christmas in the Philippines is a celebration of the  birth of the future King of Kings through a cultural depiction of the Star of Bethlehem (Parol) and the Nativity Scene (Handcarved Frame). Furthermore, the ingenuity of the Filipinos is best demonstrated through the use of  abundant resources  such as "Capiz", "Burlap", Twigs and Branches in creating unique tree ornaments." - I. Thompson
 
To learn more about the 2013 Philippine Tree designer, please visit Your Flowers by Isabel
 
Many thanks to Fernbank Museum, The Philippine Honorary Consulate General, Isa Thompson, Reina Pantaleon, GFI volunteers and supporters of the Winter Wonderland 2013 Exhibition.

The Philippine Christmas Tree at Fernbank's Winter Wonderland project is under the GFI Community Partnership Program made possible through the Office of the Philippine Honorary Consulate General in Atlanta. 

For information, please email: galingfoundation@yahoo.com