On Saturday, December 13, 2025, as dusk settles over Bethlehem and the Lehigh Valley, more than 4,000 homes are expected to glow with the warm light of luminaria. An estimated 100,000 candlelit bags will line sidewalks and driveways for Luminaria Night 2025, a community tradition that supports neighbors facing poverty, hunger, and homelessness through New Bethany.
Luminaria Night began as a small neighborhood effort and has grown into one of New Bethany’s most beloved annual events. Under the leadership of Executive Director Marc Rittle, the evening has become both a fundraiser and a visible symbol of care for those who may be struggling quietly in our midst. Each candle represents hope for individuals and families working toward stability and self-sufficiency with the help of New Bethany’s housing, food, and support services.
@lvwithloveOn December 13 at dusk, 100,000 tiny lights will shine outside more than 4,000 homes across Bethlehem and the Lehigh Valley. Luminaria Night supports neighbors facing hunger, homelessness, and hardship through New Bethany. Be the light in your neighbor’s darkest hour. Order your kit, become a block captain, or volunteer at newbethany.org, and join us on Luminaria Night. #LuminariaNight #NewBethany #BethlehemPA #LehighValley #LightTheNight @newbethany
In the weeks leading up to December 13, volunteers gather at First Presbyterian Church of Bethlehem, where thousands of kits are assembled and staged for pickup. Each kit typically includes 10 white paper bags, 10 candles, and 10 cups of sand, ready to be placed along porches, walkways, and curbs. Neighborhood “block captains” help organize orders and deliveries so entire streets can participate together.
Community members can take part in several ways. Residents may order luminaria kits online through the Luminaria Night 2025 campaign page or learn more about the event on New Bethany’s Luminaria Night information page. Those who want to do even more can sign up to volunteer with New Bethany by visiting the volunteer page, helping assemble kits, support distribution, or serve in other vital programs throughout the year.
As Marc Rittle often reminds the community, you may never know which of your neighbors is in need. Luminaria Night is an invitation to stand together in compassion and solidarity. On December 13 at dusk, every candle lit is a simple way to “be the light in your neighbor’s darkest hour.”
To order your kit, become a block captain, or learn more about New Bethany’s work, visit newbethany.org.
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