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Downingtown Area Historical Society
Luminaria Fundraiser
All proceeds benefit the Society and its mission
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A safe way to celebrate
With all that has gone on these past two years, Luminaria is a safe way to celebrate the holidays with your neighbors, family, and friends.
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History of Luminaria in Downingtown
For years, the people of Downingtown and the surrounding area have contributed to the holiday tradition of Luminaria! Please join us in ringing in the new year and holiday season by lining our neighborhoods, homes, and walkways with beautiful candle luminaries.
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Supporting our cause
Each luminary purchase helps the Downingtown Area Historical Society maintain its headquarters and research facility, located at the Ashbridge House in Ashbridge Square. Our mission is to keep history alive for current and future generations, and there’s no shortage of history in Downing’s Town!
Did you know?
The Luminary tradition in Downingtown dates back over 60 years! The Downingtown Area Historical Society is a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit organization.
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Light the night on December 24, 2023
The luminaries consist of a votive candle that is pressed into a plastic base and placed inside a white bag (see photo below). Participating households line the street in front of their home and if desired, their driveways and walkways, too! The luminaries are placed about three to five feet apart and everyone lights their candles at approximately 6:45pm. Luminaria is for everyone – feel free to get your neighbors on board to spread awareness for this whimsical lighted holiday event, and for a great charitable cause!
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How many should you order? The number is entirely up to you! A standard driveway might require 30-40 Luminaries. You can always order more!
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How do I place an order?
We prefer if you place an order online at: ​downingtownhistory.org/shop
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Prices:
Base only: $1.50
Candle/bag combo: $1.50
Kit (base/candle/bag): $3.00
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However, we can also take orders by:
Email at: dths1709@gmail.com. Let us know the order amount and we will reply with the cost and other instructions.
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Phone at: 610-269-1709 (leave a message with order and contact information). We still prefer email as we are not at the Historical Society every day and may not get back to you right away.
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The deadline for ordering is December 16, 2023, so place your order as soon as you can. While supplies last.
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Orders can be picked up at the Ashbridge House at 849 East Lancaster Avenue in Downingtown (next to Chick-Fil-A) between 1pm and 4pm on December 3, 10, and 17. We also anticipate offering pickups several Saturday mornings in December and will let you know the days and times. We also offer delivery to your porch/door step if you live in the Downingtown area. While we don't charge for delivery a small donation would be appreciated!
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Instructions:
The best way to display your luminaries is to take the base and fill it with water or sand. It includes a plastic stopper. The candle is then pressed into the slot on the base after which the candle is lit. The base serves to hold the candle in an upright position and to keep the bag from being blown over by the wind. Some do not use a base but fill the bottom of the bag with sand to hold the candle, but we feel that the bases are a better alternative.
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