Festival of Lights

History

The Festival of Lights began the year that Camp Hope was founded, 13SE. During their first winter the founders put out lights all around the camp in an effort to brighten the spirits of everyone there. The first winter was grim and many doubted that Humanity was going to survive. 

Since that time, it has become a tradition to hang lights up around the camp every year during the winter in an effort to remind everyone that there is still light even during the darkest hours of our lives. It is a time to visit those that are struggling and having either an emotionally or physically difficult time. Those who have extra are encouraged to share with those who are lacking.

Execution

The first day of the festival is called the Day of Light. The tradition is to gather together your loved ones and to light up your homes and work spaces with whatever lights you have on hand. Families come together to cover the costs of the lights when needed. It is considered an event with social standing since it is a public display of a family's wealth and power. There are often competitions and rivalries surrounding the displays of lights. Competitions can include having the most artistic light displays or simply the most grand. Rivalries between families have lasted generations and is often a sore point for the loosers for the rest of the year.

Components and tools

Any type of light is allowed per the custom. However, given the social implications of these displays. Electric lights are the most coveted of lights as they are more difficult to come by and more expensive then other kinds of lights. Poor families settle for candles or torches to light up their spaces for the festival.

Participants

Everyone living in Camp Hope participates in the Festival of Lights. This is considered a public holiday and all non-essential work is suspended until the festival is over. There is feasting and dancing in the streets. Children are entertained in games of all kinds. This is considered a time to catch up with those that have been traveling or who have been out of the camp scavanging since everyone comes back to camp for the festival.

Observance

The tradition is now to hang lights around the camp from Febuary 1st until Febuary 14 which is considered the Day of Love. The Day of Love has become a favorite time for weddings to be conducted.

Important Locations

• Camp Hope

Related Organizations

• Church of Hope