Luminaria Night is a beautiful and enchanted evening when neighborhoods line their streets with luminaria – white bags illuminated by votive candles. ... Luminaria Night started in 1998 in a small neighborhood in Bethlehem to benefit one family in need.

What do luminarias represent?

Farolito means “little lantern” in Spanish, and luminary, or luminaria , means “festival light.” Traditionally, the term luminaria was used in reference to a vigil bonfire, though it's primarily northern New Mexicans who have kept this distinction.

What is the tradition of luminaria?

The tradition of luminarias comes from Mexico. It has been celebrated for many years in New Mexico before spreading to communities throughout the United States, Canada and Europe. The Pueblo Indians in New Mexico have long lit small fires outside their homes to light their way to church on Christmas Eve.