Day of the Little Candles
Day of the Little Candles is a special celebration that lights up Colombian communities with warmth and joy. On this day, people fill their streets, windows, and balconies with small candles, creating a mesmerizing glow that stretches far into the night.
Activate Colombian and faith-centered communities on December 7th with candle, home décor, and festive gathering products tied to a culturally meaningful tradition.
- DIY candle-making kits and scent bundles for family crafting sessions
- Candlelit dinner party inspiration: outdoor table settings and ambient lighting products
- Faith-forward storytelling: how one tradition lights up entire neighborhoods
- Neighborhood candle-lighting events and community gathering guides
Day of the Little Candles began many years ago in Colombia as a way to honor the Virgin Mary. The tradition started on December 7th, 1854, when Pope Pius IX declared the Immaculate Conception of Mary as official Catholic doctrine.
In celebration, people lit candles and lanterns in their homes and streets, creating a beautiful, glowing display.
Over time, this tradition spread across the country, becoming an important part of Colombian culture. Families, friends, and communities come together each year to celebrate this special day.
Lighting candles symbolize their faith and devotion to Mary and bring them closer together. The event has grown, with each generation adding new customs and keeping the light of the tradition alive.
Today marks the beginning of the Christmas season in Colombia, and people look forward to it with great anticipation. Though it started as a religious observance, the day has evolved into a time for gathering, reflection, and joy.
The simple act of lighting a candle connects everyone to a shared history and a collective spirit. This glowing tradition continues to shine brightly, bringing warmth and hope to all who take part.
Create a Candle Wonderland
Transform your home into a glowing wonderland by placing candles everywhere you can imagine. Line your windowsills, doorways, and garden paths with tiny flickering lights. Watch as your space turns into a magical retreat that invites everyone to step inside. Add some lanterns for extra sparkle and let the enchantment begin.
Gather the Family for a Crafty Candle-Making Session
Get crafty with a homemade candle-making session! Gather the family around the kitchen table, melt some wax, and let creativity flow. Choose your favorite colors and scents, then pour the mixture into fun molds. By the end, you’ll have personalized candles ready to shine brightly and add an extra personal touch to your celebration.
Host a Twilight Potluck with Friends
Invite friends over for a twilight potluck under the stars. Everyone can bring a dish to share, and you can provide the candlelit ambiance. Arrange a long table outside, light it up with candles of every size, and enjoy a night of good food and even better company. The soft glow will make everything taste just a little bit better.
Write Your Wishes and Light Them Up
Turn wishes into lights by writing them on pieces of paper and attaching them to candles. As each one is lit, send your hopes and dreams into the universe. It’s a charming way to add meaning to the night and connect with loved ones. Plus, it makes for a beautiful, thoughtful tradition that’s sure to become a favorite.
Create a Neighborhood Candle Parade
Why keep all the fun to yourself? Organize a neighborhood candle parade! Gather neighbors and have everyone light a candle. Then, parade through the streets, sharing the light with everyone you pass. It’s a playful way to spread joy and get to know those who live nearby. By the end of the walk, your whole neighborhood will be glowing.