Luminaria (vigil fire)

A luminaria (rarely vigil fire)[1] is a traditional small bonfire typically used during Las Posadas, a nine-day celebration culminating on Christmas Eve (la Nochebuena).

The branches are laid to form a box so that the fire will cast the most light and heat with the least flame.

[5] Rarely, use of the luminaria begins even earlier, on December 12 after the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

[6] The early 16th century missionary historian Toribio de Benavente Motolinia described luminarias in use by Native Americans in Colonial Mexico, to illuminate midnight church services in outdoor chapels, and on their rooftops on Christmas Eve.

[7] A luminaria may be constructed in a small brazier, so that the heat does not damage pavement or stonework, and to reduce the risk of the fire spreading or escaping.