Rowan Memorial Park Luminaries First Saturday in December

Christmas Luminaries in Rowan County Cemetery ©Katrena

Many people look to the holidays with mixed emotions, especially after the loss of someone close. Rowan Memorial Park in Salisbury, North Carolina offers a beautiful, simple way in which to celebrate the Christmas season with their annual luminary service at the cemetery.

Enjoy Beautiful Luminaries on First Saturday in December at Rowan Memorial Park ©Katrena

Each year on the first Saturday of December, Rowan Memorial Park becomes an amazing site as hundreds of luminaries light up the cemetery. They offer a short memorial service in the chapel behind the lake. The public is welcome to drive through to see the lights, to walk among the sites, and to attend the service. This event is free.

Christmas Memorial Service at Rowan Memorial Park ©Katrena

Cemeteries can be a place of quiet contemplation and often lack the hoopla that tends to accompany many of the commercialized Christmas celebrations. Much time is put into preparing and lighting the huge number of white bag luminaries at Rowan's cemetery located on Highway 601 just a few miles north of Catawba College.

Find Ways to Enjoy True Meaning of Christmas ©Katrena

Those who are driving through the Rowan County cemetery may wish to use parking lights only while slowly driving up and down the paved lanes. Those who wish to walk around the cemetery will find beautiful artwork, memorials, flowers, and may catch a glimpse of the ducks and geese at the pond. A few areas have benches.

Simple Way to Enjoy Christmas Season & Remember Loved Ones ©Katrena

The Rowan Memorial Park luminary service is offered at 6:00 p.m. on the first Saturday in December. This year's date is Saturday, December 3, 2011. Although the holidays may be bittersweet for many, this beautiful, serene sight may serve visitors well in setting the tone for a Christmas season that is focused on the people who are present and those who have left a wonderful legacy.

Christmas Candles at Rowan Memorial Park in Salisbury NC ©Katrena