We know Christmas has come to the Southwest when the pallets of sand and brown paper bags arrive at garden centers, home improvement stores, and even the grocery store. Luminarias are an Albuquerque tradition for decorating our homes, walkways and even roofs. The luminarias have their roots in the large bonfires that used to light up the desert landscape for Christmas Eve Mass. Now, these humble paper lanterns take the place of bonfires, lighting up our homes on this cold December evening.

Traditional Luminaria

The traditional luminaria, still used by most residents, is a plain brown paper lunch sack with a candle inside. Sand provides weight to the bag and keeps it open so the sides don't alight. The new battery operated candles provide a safer option than tea lights.

Tin Luminaria

Tin cans provide a modern and attractive twist to the traditional luminaria. Fill the can with water and freeze it. Use a nail and a hammer to punch holes in the side to create a design. The ice prevents the can from collapsing as you punch. Knock out the ice and place a tea light or electric candle inside.

Plastic Luminaria

Naturally, big box stores have jumped on the luminaria bandwagon and now offer strings of plastic luminarias with electric lights inside. I'm not too fond of these myself, but they do provide a safe and easy to install option for roof tops.

Regardless of the variety you choose, plan on setting up plenty of them. Their beauty is more impressive in great numbers. Line your sidewalks and driveway with the bags. Use them to mark out fence lines and garden paths. Their gentle glow still lights the way in Albuquerque on Christmas Eve, just as the bonfires did a hundred years ago.