So what, exactly, is a luminaria? It is a small paper lantern fashioned from a white bag, lit from within by a candle, weighted with sand. The lanterns are placed along pathways, and sidewalks, or arranged in elaborate rows. Besides creating a glittering, lovely display, the luminaria also represents guiding the spirit of Christ into the home for Christians. It is a tradition that comes from Spanish merchants, and is practiced mainly in the American Southwest, but has been gaining in popularity all over the United States and Europe.
On December 20 from 6-10 p.m., Irvington’s streets will be lit with candles, while illuminated bicyclists will cruise through the streets, and local businesses open their doors. Neighbors are encouraged to participate, and help light the public areas of Irvington with luminaria as well.
The Central Indiana Bicycling Association (CIBA) Luminaria Bike Ride will be cruising in from Broad Ripple, following New York Street from downtown up Pleasant Run, down Audubon, past Irving Circle, Bona Memorial Center and the Benton House, and taking in the sights along the way. Many will be in holiday-spirited costumes and have their bikes decorated for the season.
On Irving Circle, kids can enjoy pictures with Santa in an antique sleigh, caroling, refreshments, and more, thanks to the Friends of Irving Circle.
At the Benton House (312 S. Downey), there will be an open house from 7-9 p.m. with Christmas lights, music, refreshments, and much more. Just up the street at the Bona Thompson Memorial Center (corner of Downey and University Ave.), there will be a special exhibition of the West Baden Angels, plus an Ayres nostalgia exhibit and expanded International Harvester exhibit.
Celebrate the re-opening of Bonna Ave. with Christmas Jazz at Coal Yard Coffee, 5547 Bonna Ave. Nick Tucker and Friends will be performing, and Santa will make a special appearance. There will be Christmas cookies, warm beverages, and a chance to check out a great gathering spot in Irvington during this family-friendly event (dogs are welcome on the outside patio).
At the Magic Candle, drop off food donations for the Gaia Works Food Pantry. The pantry is in need of peanut butter, canned hams, and other non-perishable proteins.
Also in conjunction with Irvington Luminaria, the Irvington Presbyterian Church (55 Johnson Ave.) will hold it’s Sanctuary open for quiet prayer and reflection from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Come and tie a knot on the peace quilt for peace and pray for the wholeness of all creation.
The Irvington Luminaria is in its 38th year, and has been growing in participation gradually over that time. The luminaria kits, including bags and candles, are available for purchase at the Antique Mall of Irvington (5501 E. Washington St.), Black Sheep Gifts (5626 E. Washington St.), Coal Yard Coffee (5547 Bonna Ave.), Central Ace Hardware (1025 N. Arlington), and Deering Cleaners (1160 N. Arlington). Proceeds of from the sales of the kits go to support next year’s luminaria and other community projects in Irvington.
