Christmas bonfires facts for kids
Every year, a special tradition lights up the banks of the Mississippi River near Lutcher, Louisiana. People build over a hundred huge bonfires from wood, firecrackers, and sometimes even bamboo. This amazing event usually happens on Christmas Eve. If it rains, the bonfires are often moved to New Year's Eve.
The Christmas Bonfires of Lutcher
The bonfires are a big part of the holiday season in this area. They are built on the levee, which is a raised bank that protects the land from the river. This tradition is thought to have started way back in the late 1800s. It's a unique way to celebrate Christmas and bring the community together.
Why Do People Build These Bonfires?
There are a couple of fun stories about why these bonfires are built. One popular story says that the bonfires are made to light a path for Papa Noel. Papa Noel is the Cajun French name for Santa Claus. The bright fires help him find his way through the night sky to deliver presents.
Another explanation for the bonfires is that they help friends and family. In the past, they might have helped visitors find their way along the river. The fires could guide boats to the right inlets or slips leading to homes they wanted to visit on Christmas Eve.
A Tradition Through the Years
This tradition has been going on for a very long time. It shows how communities keep special customs alive. However, sometimes big events can cause changes. For example, in 2020, the Christmas bonfires were cancelled. This happened because of the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused many public gatherings to be paused for safety. The cancellation was a rare event, showing how important the tradition is when it does happen.
