When to put up / take down luminaries

When it comes to putting up outdoor luminaries for the holidays, there is no one right answer for when is the best time. It is a personal choice and can depend on various factors such as weather, personal preference, or cultural and spiritual significance.

Long ago, luminaries were mostly made of paper and were only put up for one single night because they would last that long and the light source was a candle. But now, with the advancement of technology, our luminaries are made to last for over a decade, making it a common practice to keep them up for one or two months during the holiday season.

Perhaps you choose to put them up on the weekend of Thanksgiving, when the weather permits and you can enjoy the warm glow of the luminaries as you gather with family and friends for the holiday. Or maybe you have a spiritual or cultural reason for choosing a specific time. For example, in Christianity, the Advent season starts four Sundays before Christmas Day, and is a time of anticipation and preparation for the birth of Jesus. Luminaries can be used to symbolize the light of Christ and the coming of the Messiah. Similarly, in Hinduism, the festival of Diwali or Deepavali, which is celebrated in October or November, is known as the "Festival of Lights" and luminaries are used to symbolize the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.

Many people have discovered that the longer they keep their luminaries up, the more joy and happiness they bring. So, if luminaries bring you happiness, our advice is to extend that happiness as long as you like. Keep them up for the entire holiday season or even longer if it brings you joy.

When it comes to taking down the luminaries, again, it's a personal choice. Some people may choose to take them down right after Christmas, while others may prefer to keep them up until the New Year, or even until the Epiphany, which commemorates the arrival of the three kings to Bethlehem. Still, others may choose to keep them up until the next holiday, such as Mardi Gras.

Whatever you decide, be happy with your decision and know that you are spreading warmth and joy to others. Remember, your participation in spreading the holiday spirit is vital, and many people around you will appreciate the warm glow of your luminaries. So, let's spread joy and happiness and light up the holidays together! Whether it's a single night or an entire month, luminaries will bring a sense of warmth and cheer to the community, and it is a great way to add to the festive atmosphere!

Want to know more about the origins of luminaries?  CLICK HERE

Happy Holidays!