At Christmastime, it might be commonplace to see luminaries marking the walkways and streets of your neighborhood. While this festive touch may seem like a new idea, tradition has it that Christmas luminaries began centuries ago. When shepherds from around the land made their way to see the Baby Jesus, bonfires were built to mark the path.

It became a custom in Mexico for bonfires to be built in the village squares in celebration of the Christ Child. People of the towns would gather to pray, rejoice, and pay homage to His birth. After the party was over, members of each family would go home and build a bonfire in front of their own home.

Farolitos is the Spanish word for "little lights." Around the turn of the 20th century, a new tradition was begun. A family was not able to build the usual bonfire at Christmastime. All they had was a piece of a candle and a bag partially filled with sand. Many of these lights, or luminaries, were made to represent the bonfire to honor Jesus. Ever since, Christmas luminaries have been some of the most beautiful signs of the season.

If you like the idea of Christmas luminaries, Lumabase has complete kits from which you can choose, featuring Christmas tree designs, stars, or snowflakes. Our Complete Christmas Luminaria Kit comes with 12 star-cut LumaSleeves and bags in red, white, and green. It also comes with candles and LumaBases to make up 12 little lights. If you'd like to find out more about Christmas luminaries, please send us a note at sales@lumabase.com.