The Día de las Velitas has always been one of the most special days of my childhood and continues to hold that significance in adulthood. In Colombia, we celebrate this day every December 7th as a way of honoring the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary.
From as far back as I can remember, my family would gather early to prepare the candles we would light that night. In fact, even days before this celebration, stores showcase traditional candles on their shelves, embodying the spirit of Christmas. This date marks the official beginning of the Christmas season, along with the atmosphere of unity, joy, and spirituality it brings. It is the first day we enjoy traditional treats such as natilla and buñuelos, and sing Christmas carols.
What do the lit candles symbolize during the Día de las Velitas, and how do they contribute to the festive atmosphere?
The lit candles are more than simple lights; for us, they symbolize hope, faith, and the light we wish to bring into our lives.
It is often said that these lights guide the way, and when I see all the candles glowing on the streets, I feel surrounded by good wishes and a sense of protection.
What sets this celebration apart from others is the communal nature of the activities. Neighbors come together to place candles on wooden boards in their garages, and as everyone participates simultaneously, the celebration becomes one for the entire block. Some particularly lively neighbors bring out sound systems to provide music and fireworks, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
In gated communities, there are often additional activities, such as nativity scene inaugurations and children’s events. It is a day that signals the start of Christmas decorations, as cities illuminate their lights in a warm environment where every candle adds its small spark—not just to brighten the night, but also to warm the hearts of everyone celebrating.
How is the celebration organized in your community, and what specific traditions are associated with the use of candles?
In my community, the celebration of the Día de las Velitas has always been a tradition that begins early. Families organize themselves to place candles on wooden boards, often using cardboard lanterns. Each family designates a spot in their garage or in front of their home, but since everyone comes out to light their candles at the same time, the event becomes a collective block celebration.
I remember, as a child, the final school project of the year was making a lantern for the Día de las Velitas. We painted them in various designs, used cellophane paper, and fashioned wire handles. The anticipation of taking our handmade lanterns out on December 7th was immense.
What role do candles play in fostering social interaction during the night of December 7th?
Candles play a central role in fostering social interaction on this night. Since childhood, it has been one of my favorite evenings—not just for lighting candles, but for the gathering and the lively atmosphere surrounding it.
The children meet early, each carrying bags of candles and lanterns, ready to light up the block. Someone would always bring colorful or scented candles, and we spent time admiring and comparing who had the most unique ones.
One of the most exciting moments was finding the perfect spot to place our lanterns and ensuring they stayed lit. We often made it a game to see who could keep the most candles burning throughout the night. Although they extinguished repeatedly, the laughter and teamwork of all the children made the evening even more enjoyable. Ultimately, the essence of the night was gathering with friends around the candlelit boards.
Neighbors would bring chairs to the sidewalks, and while the children played with the lights, the adults enjoyed food, drinks, and lively conversations.
What emotions and memories does the Día de las Velitas evoke for you, and how are they tied to the candles and the celebration?
The Día de las Velitas evokes a mix of nostalgia and joy for me, as if each tiny flame carries a fragment of my childhood. The candles were more than objects; they were the thread connecting all those happy memories. They transport me to nights spent with my siblings and neighbors, carefully lighting them as if they were the most precious things in the world.
It is a tradition to light a candle for a wish, and even now, I see on social media how people light candles for Colombia—for peace in the country or even with personalized names. The scent of melted wax brings back memories… its fragrance, along with the flickering lights of the lanterns, created a magical atmosphere. Even as children, we felt we were part of something grand—something that united our families and the entire community.
My parents often said that the candles symbolized hope and good wishes. At the time, I didn’t fully grasp the meaning of their words, but they have stayed with me ever since.
When I think about the Día de las Velitas, I also recall the typical foods, shared laughter, and how, for one night, all worries seemed to fade away. It was a moment to be present with loved ones, and the candles were the focal point of it all. Even now, each time I light a candle, I feel connected to those traditions and the simple yet profound joy of those moments.
In summary, for me, the candles have always symbolized unity and happy memories. Each year, on December 7th, as I see the flickering lights, I feel that warmth still alive—a bridge to the past and a reminder of the joy of sharing with others.
