Bonfires on the Levee
Gramercy and Lutcher, Louisiana, Christmas Eve
Since the early Acadian settlements in Louisiana, bonfires have been built on the levees as part of the Christmas celebration. With their roots in ancient pagan customs, these bonfires are to guide Father Christmas on his way along the river. They are set ablaze at 7pm and burn for several hours. In modern times the celebration has also included fireworks.
(http://www.louisianafolklife.org/LT/Articles_Essays/main_misc_bonfires_levee.html)
