Feliz Navidad...
The Story of the Luminaria -- During the 19th century in Northern New Mexico, the people would criss-cross sticks of pinion for bonfires. These bonfires or "farolitos" would light the path ways to their homes during the holiday season. It symbolized the lighting of bonfires by the shepherds leading the way to the manger of the Christ child.
In the early 20th century these bonfires became easier with little paper bags, a candle and some sand with the top of the bag turned down about a third. They were known as luminarios.
My dad still puts out luminarias each year. I love the way they look. Maybe I'll do some at my house this year.
Posted by: yvett | December 05, 2004 at 09:48 PM
I was looking for a picture of luminarios to illustrate a post on my blog. Thanks for having such a nice one to link to!
Posted by: Tom | December 30, 2004 at 04:54 PM