Date: Friday, December 9th,2022
Time: Sundown (typically between 5:30-6PM)
By Louise Nelson
Ladies and Gentlemen, it’s that time of year to Light Up Marsh Creek!
Last year’s inaugural event, supported by the Marsh Creek Country Club, is once again organized by Spoonbill Neighbors. We hope to build on last year’s great community success when street after street in Marsh Creek was bathed in a warm glow of flickering candles, complementing brightly colored homes decorated for the holiday season.
Quick History:
What are “luminarias”?
Luminarias (Spanish for “small bonfires”) were first recorded in the 16th century, when Spanish tradition encouraged lighting bonfires along streets to guide the Catholic faithful to Midnight Mass. This final night of Las Posadas was a re-enactment of Mary and Joseph’s quest for lodging in Bethlehem. Today, they serve as symbols of welcome and warmth and used for many special occasions. Marsh Creeks Night of Lights is one such occasion, to honor all religious or non-religious celebrations that occur over this Holiday Season.
Have you ordered your candles, bags, sand or stones?
We recommend buying enough supplies to place a “luminaria” every 5-8 feet across the front of your property. And be sure to buy extra if you’re staying home on Christmas eve and planning a repeat.
Place a little bit of sand or stones or pebbles in the bottom of your luminaria bags, drop in a candle, light them, and VOILA!
What to buy and where:
There are lots of options: Amazon, Walmart, Hobby Lobby, Michaels & craft stores. And of course, Pine Castle Charity https://pinecastle.org/holiday-luminaria-kits/ offers a complete “turnkey” operation, (sand/candle/cup) all ready to go. Pine Castle is a charitable organization, and the proceeds go to fund helping the disabled adults who make the kits. Pine Castle‘s phone number is 904-733-2650.
The bags that seemed the sturdiest were from Hobby Lobby, with handles & a thicker quality of paper with a shine on it…
Also, votive candles in glass cups from the Dollar Store worked well. According to a neighbor, they burned all night long. And pebbles or rocks instead of sand at the bottom of the bag seem to be a better option than sand.
Now’s the time to look for sales to avoid last minute rush.
Have you got your block party organized?
Last year showed some impressive creativity and neighborliness, as many streets, porches, driveways, lanais and cul-de-sacs became party scenes. The Night of Lights is the ideal time to walk around the neighborhood with the kids, pets, and beverage of choice to meet the neighbors.
For more information, or to volunteer for this event, please contact Louise Nelson (lzn@mindspring.com).
Date: Friday, December 9th,2022
Happy Holidays!
