A Leesburg holiday tradition will return to the village on Sunday, Dec. 10, when locals line the streets with lights.

The annual Leesburg Luminaria Night, a community event now in its 29th year, will begin at 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 10.

The first Luminaria Night was held in the village on the same date in 1988, with snowflakes falling softly to cover the sidewalks and rooftops.

The town was alight with the glow of candles shining throught white luminaria bags.

The Leesburg Lions Club has continued to sponsor the tradition as Leesburg community businesses, churches and villagers place candles in white bags to light the streets.

A luminaria decoration contest will be held, and an out-of-town judge will select one winner from Leesburg and one from nearby areas, including the Highland community.

A $50 prize will be awarded to each winner, and a “street winner” will receive a free kit for next year.

There will also be recognition for the most festive business selected by attendees.

Those in attendance can also join a Leesburg community sing-along led by Sean Poole from 6-7 p.m. in the center of the village.

Downtown businesses will host open houses, complete with plenty of goodies to enjoy; Santa Claus arrives at 6 p.m.; a royal court will be crowned; and the evening will end with a community service at 8 p.m. at the Leesburg United Methodist Church.

Free wagon rides will be available throughout the evening to view the beautiful lights.

“Come join us for a festive evening with good treats and wagon rides,” said Jay Newland, Leesburg Lions Club secretary.

Luminaria candle kits – 20 candles and 20 bags – will be available at Square One Heating and Cooling for $8. Picl-up times are 4-7 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 8, and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 9.

Sand is available if you bring your container.

Those with questions or concerns can contact a Leesburg Lions Club member at 937-780-6204 or 937-661-5984.

Information for this article was provided by the Leesburg Lions Club.