Luminaria

A luminaria or farolito (see naming disagreement section below) is a small paper lantern (commonly a candle set in some sand inside a paper bag) which is of significance in New Mexico and in southwest United States at Christmas time, especially on Christmas Eve. These paper lanterns have to some extent replaced the older tradition of the vigil fire luminaria with which they became confused.

Yet another form of luminaria, a small torch or large candle, is carried by the leader of the procession of Las Posadas, a nine-day holiday running December 16–24.

Electrically-lit luminarias are also used, consisting of a string of standard incandescent "Christmas lights" with the bulbs covered with a tan plastic sleeve, made to about the size and shape of a small paper bag.

Christmas tradition

Traditional Christmas Eve luminarias are said to originate from Spaniard merchants. They were impressed with the Paper lanterns from the Chinese culture and decided to make their own version when they returned to New Spain; particularly during the Christmas season. They decided to use more "hearty" materials. Traditionally, luminarias are made from brown paper bags weighted down with sand and illuminated from within by a lit candle. These are typically arranged in rows to create large and elaborate displays. The hope among Roman Catholics is that the lights will guide the spirit of the Christ child to one's home.

Luminaria (vigil fire)

A luminaria (rarely vigil fire) is a traditional small bonfire typically used during Las Posadas, a 9-day celebration culminating on Christmas Eve (la Nochebuena). The luminaria is widely used in Santa Fe, New Mexico.Luminaria is a loanword from Spanish that entered English in New Mexico.

Form

In New Mexico tradition, the luminaria is constructed of piñon pine branches stacked to form a cube similar in style to a log fence or log cabin. The piñon is used because it is abundant and the resin has a distinct fragrance that is very pleasing. To many people in New Mexico this is the fragrance of Christmas. The branches are laid to form a box so that the fire will cast the most light and heat with the least flame.

Use

The luminaria is placed at the entrance to the home or in the middle of a courtyard. In New Mexico many traditional Spanish Colonial homes have a central open courtyard with a large entrance gate; the luminaria is placed at the gate. In traditional Pueblo villages, where the entrances to homes are rooftops, the luminaria may be placed on a rooftop.

Luminaria (disambiguation)

Luminaria and similar may refer to:

Lights

Places

Music and film

Other

See also