The History, Meaning, and Traditions of Lighting Feliz Navidad Candles

The History and Meaning of the Feliz Navidad Candle

As the holidays approach each year, many families have treasured traditions that help get them into the festive spirit. One such tradition that has become more popular in recent years is lighting a feliz navidad candle. This candle holds deep meaning and represents the joyous Christmas season.

What Does Feliz Navidad Mean?

Feliz navidad is Spanish for "Merry Christmas." The term has its origins in the Spanish language, as feliz means happy and navidad means nativity or Christmas. So feliz navidad literally translates to "Happy Christmas."

The feliz navidad greeting and song lyrics were popularized by the famous Puerto Rican singer José Feliciano in 1970. His song "Feliz Navidad" has become a beloved Christmas standard across the Spanish speaking world and internationally as well.

The Significance of the Feliz Navidad Candle

Lighting a feliz navidad candle during the holiday season is a way to honor the meaning behind this popular Christmas saying. The flickering light represents the hope, joy, and connection we feel during this special time of year.

A feliz navidad candle can be lit while singing or listening to José Feliciano's iconic song, as you reflect on the meaning of Christmas. It's a simple yet symbolic tradition that brings the warmth and wonder of the holidays into your home.

Types of Feliz Navidad Candles

There are many beautiful and festive feliz navidad candle designs to choose from. Here are some of the most popular options:

• Jar candles featuring the words "Feliz Navidad" printed on the glass.
• Votive candles with the feliz navidad greeting engraved or decorated on the exterior.
• Pillar candles embellished with Christmas imagery like poinsettias, mistletoe, or ornaments.
• Scented candles that evoke the smells of Christmas like cinnamon, pine, sugar cookie, and more.
• Candy cane shaped candles striped in red and white.

The candles come in traditional Christmas colors like red, green, gold, silver, and white. You can find feliz navidad candles with glitter, sequins, ribbons, and other embellishments to add a festive touch.

When to Light a Feliz Navidad Candle

Lighting a feliz navidad candle can become a treasured part of your holiday traditions. Here are some special occasions when these candles hold particular meaning:

• Christmas Eve - Light the candle on Nochebuena as you prepare for the arrival of Christmas day.
• Christmas Dinner - Place the lit candle on your dining table during your Christmas celebration meals.
• Christmas Eve Mass - Bring the candle to light during your church services on Nochebuena.
• Christmas Singalongs - Light the candle while you sing or listen to holiday music.
• New Year's Eve - Keep the feliz navidad spirit going as you ring in the new year.
• Epiphany - Mark Three Kings Day on January 6th with a lighting of your candle.

Displaying Your Feliz Navidad Candle

Making your feliz navidad candle a focal point of your Christmas decor is easy and can be done in many creative ways. Here are some tips:

• Place your lit candle on the mantle alongside garland, stockings, and other holiday adornments.
• Arrange your candle as a centerpiece surrounded by pinecones, ornaments, and wreaths.
• Group several candles together on your dining table or coffee table for a bright and cozy display.
• Set the candle near your Nativity scene, Christmas tree, or in a window to be seen from outside.
• For safety, keep your candle on a flame-resistant plate or holder and away from flammable decor.

Safety Tips for Feliz Navidad Candles

While candles add beautiful ambiance and meaning, they also present a fire hazard if not handled properly. Here are some key safety guidelines for your feliz navidad candles:

• Never leave a burning candle unattended. Extinguish before leaving a room.
• Keep lit candles out of reach of children and pets.
• Avoid using candles near flammable materials like curtains, blankets, wrapping paper, and trees.
• Place your candle on a stable, heat-resistant surface.
• Read and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
• Trim the wick to 1⁄4 inch before lighting to prevent hazardous high flames.
• Allow wax to fully pool and melt evenly to prevent tunneling.
• Make sure candles are extinguished fully before going to sleep or leaving home.

Light Up Your Holidays With Feliz Navidad Candles

The beloved Christmas song reminds us to wish others happiness and blessings during this season of joy. Lighting a feliz navidad candle is a wonderful way to mark this most wonderful time of the year. Let these special candles fill your home with the warmth, hope, and festive spirit of the holidays.

¡Feliz Navidad a todos!

FAQs

What does feliz navidad mean?

Feliz navidad is Spanish for "Merry Christmas." The term literally translates to "Happy Nativity" or "Happy Christmas."

Where did the feliz navidad greeting and song come from?

The popular Christmas song "Feliz Navidad" that helped spread the feliz navidad greeting was written and recorded by the Puerto Rican singer José Feliciano in 1970.

What are some ways to use a feliz navidad candle?

Feliz navidad candles can be lit on Christmas Eve, Christmas day, during holiday meals, while singing carols, on New Year's Eve, and for Three Kings Day.

Are feliz navidad candles safe to use?

Yes, if some basic candle safety tips are followed, like keeping them away from children and flammable objects and never leaving them unattended.

Where can I buy a feliz navidad candle?

Many retailers like Target, Walmart, and online stores like Etsy and Amazon sell feliz navidad candles in different styles and scents.