farolitos

Farolitos are small lanterns used in the Southwestern United States, especially New Mexico, to illuminate Christmas celebrations. The term comes from the Spanish farol, meaning lantern, with the diminutive form farolito.

They are typically lightweight and made from paper or simple lantern forms, with a candle or small light inside. Traditional versions use a candle placed inside a paper lantern or inside a paper bag with sand to stabilize the flame.

Regional usage varies. In New Mexico, farolitos are often distinguished from luminarias, though the terms are sometimes used interchangeably. Farolitos are commonly seen as paper lanterns placed on porches, walls, or rooftops, while luminarias are generally paper bags filled with sand and a candle used to line walkways.

Historically, the practice reflects Spanish and Mexican Christmas customs and is tied to lighting paths for holiday processions and the nativity narrative during Christmas Eve and Las Posadas. Today, farolitos remain a visual hallmark of seasonal decorations in communities such as Santa Fe and Albuquerque, symbolizing hospitality and festive illumination.

Safety and modernization have influenced current practice. Many use LED candles or electric lights to reduce fire risk, especially in dry seasons or crowded public displays. When real flames are used, organizers typically follow local guidelines, placing lights on non-flammable surfaces and at safe distances from vegetation.