Luminary candles, also known as luminarias, are a popular holiday custom that began centuries ago in Mexico. While luminarias are traditionally burned on Christmas Eve, they are also often used for outdoor candlelight vigils and ceremonies. The luminary bags are weighted down with a couple of inches of sand, which also holds the candle. Our luminary votive candles are made especially for use in outdoor luminary bags (luminarias). These votive candles utilize a special wick that allows them to burn well when buried in sand. They're the perfect candles for your holiday tradition! Candle will burn for approximately 8-10 hours when buried in sand.