Mark your calendars: Riverside Avondale’s beloved Luminaria celebration will be here soon! The traditional lighting of the lanterns at sundown will take place this year on Sunday, December 18th. The Luminaria is one of RAP's (Riverside Avondale Preservation) largest fundraisers and is a wonderful community-building event that celebrates the holiday season! The event is free to attend and stretches through miles of historic streets and neighborhoods in the Avondale / Riverside area. 

The history of Riverside Avondale’s Luminaria all began with a devoted community member and RAP supporter, Jerry Spinks. Mr. Spinks was merely looking for a way to help fund raise for Riverside Avondale Preservation during this magical time of year. He thought that he would sell a bundle of luminaries to his neighbors. But to his surprise, he sold out quickly. In fact, he had to go around town gathering more supplies to keep up with the demand. Decades later, the community organically turned this event into a Winter Wonderland. The closing of the streets, light parades, block parties, bike rides, and church festivities have now become a part of this great neighborhood as its annual holiday tradition.

Support RAP by purchasing your Luminaria Kits from their offices and authorized distribution locations. Every sale of a Luminaria kit helps their organization continue its mission of preserving community and quality of life. For more information, contact Amanda, [email protected] or call them at (904) 389-2449.