Lutcher, Louisiana - Christmas Eve 2010

Wooden "teepee" like structures called Bonfires are built every year in the Lutcher, Gramercy, and Paulina area in Louisiana.
This tradition has existed for over a hundred years and legend has it the Bonfires are built on the Mississippi River levee to light the way for Pappa Noel to find his way to South Louisiana.

See the previous photo taken yesterday before the bonfires were lit.

This is one of the greatest "free" events in the World. Spectators line the River Road on foot as well as in cars to watch this annual tradition. River front homes host parties for friends and family. Gumbo is one of the traditional foods served on Christmas Eve.