Luminaria 2018

A neighborhood celebration of joy and friendship begins at dusk on December 23rd.

luminaria poster 2018

The Purpose of Luminaria

Luminaria is one of Riverside and Avondale's premier celebrations. The event was established by local volunteers as a way for neighbors to commemorate the season by walking amongst the sidewalk candles to social events with friends. Over 15,000 candles nestled inside paper lanterns will be on display throughout the historic district on December 23rd.

Purchasing Your Official Luminaria

Luminaria is next weekend, but you can get your kits now conveniently at Riverside Avondale Preservation at 2623 Herschel St. Office hours from Monday to Friday are 10 am to 2 pm. On Saturday and Sunday your can pull into the parking lot via the entrance off Park Avenue. Look for the directional signs. You don't even need to get out of your car. Our volunteers provide service to your car door. Hours on Saturday are 9 - 4 and Sunday from 12 - 4. Cost of the kit containing six candles, six bags and sand is $6.

Special Events Scheduled for the Evening

Many residents will have their own celebration with friends. Several organizations and churches also provide special events and entertainment for the evening's celebration. They include:

  • Riverside Avenue Christian Church presents a live Nativity.
  • Avondale United Methodist will have Bells and Bluegrass with church choir beginning at 7 pm.
  • Riverside Park United Methodist will offer a tent with hot chocolate and Christmas card crafting.
  • Grace Church of Avondale presents caroling on their front steps.
  • Riverside United Church of Christ will have caroling in the sanctuary beginning at 6:30. Refreshments follow the singing.

If you have plans for the evening that are open to the public we want to hear about them so we can let everyone know how you are celebrating. Or, tell us about a special memory of Luminaria past. Write us at Info@RiversideAvondale.org.

Share the Spirit of the Season

During the Riverside Avondale Preservation Luminaria share your photos on our Facebook (preservationjax) or Instagram (preservationjax) page.

Give the Gift of Luminaria to Your Neighbors

This holiday season light up the night with these one-of-a-kind, very special Luminaria Kits. Pine Castle, a local nonprofit that supports adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, created Luminaria Kits and we're excited to support their organization this Holiday Season! The gift boxes are $15 and make great gifts for your neighbors and friends! The gift box includes premium sand, 12 candles, and 12 bags.

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