Enchanted Luminaria Walk 2025: A Celebration of Family, Tradition, and Belonging at Minnetrista
Every December, Minnetrista feels a little different—like the whole campus takes a deep breath and settles into something softer, warmer, and more connected. As the sun dips behind the trees along the river and the pathways of Oakhurst Gardens begin to glow, the Enchanted Luminaria Walk reminds us why this place matters.
What started decades ago as a winter event has become a tradition woven into the fabric of Muncie. This year, 6,093 guests came together—2,627 on Friday and 3,466 on Saturday—each adding their own light to the experience.
Where Tradition Meets New Memories
Families showed up with the rituals they’ve carried for years: taking that first photo under the lit archway, warming their hands with hot cocoa in the Orchard Shop Courtyard, listening as carolers drifted between garden spaces, making s’mores at the fire pit, or returning to the luminaria trail spot they claim every single year.
And then there were the newcomers—wide-eyed, bundled in scarves, seeing Minnetrista like this for the very first time. They came ready to build traditions of their own, and we were ready to welcome them.
This blending of the old and the new is what makes Luminaria feel so timeless. Whether you’ve lived in Muncie your whole life or just arrived, the moment you step onto the grounds, you feel it—you belong here.
“The Enchanted Luminaria Walk has become one of our favorite holiday traditions. We love walking through the lights together, checking out the local artisans, and enjoying warm cider. It’s been especially rewarding watching our young nieces enjoy the event, and the lights were more beautiful than ever this year!”
A Community Gathered
Under the Lights
The magic of Enchanted Luminaria Walk isn’t only in the glow of thousands of candles drifting across the gardens—it’s in the incredible community of people who help make each moment unforgettable. Live musicians created pockets of warmth and melody throughout the evening, their voices and instruments weaving through the night and guiding guests from one experience to the next.
Vendors added festive energy at the Holiday Artisan Market with seasonal treats and handcrafted goods, offering little moments of delight along the paths. And our own Hospitality team kept spirits high with hot drinks that warmed cold hands and welcomed guests with that signature Minnetrista care.
It’s neighbors waving across the crowd, grandparents helping little hands roast marshmallows, friends reconnecting under the lights, and volunteers sharing stories with guests they’ve never met.
These nights reflect who Muncie is: welcoming, connected, creative, and proud. The attendance numbers are exciting, but what they represent matters even more—a community choosing to gather, celebrate, and make memories together.
Belonging in Every Step
At Minnetrista, belonging is not just an idea—it’s a practice. It shows up in the pathways we design, the stories we tell, the events we host, and the way our staff and volunteers greet every guest with genuine care.
During Enchanted Luminaria Walk, belonging is everywhere: in the glow that guides you through the gardens, in the laughter echoing across the lawns, in the shared warmth of a fire pit where strangers become neighbors, and in the memories passed from one generation to the next.
As the final luminarias dimmed and families stepped back into the chilly night, one truth lingered: this community shines. And every year, it shines a little brighter.
Thank You
To the 6,093 guests who shared this weekend with us—thank you. Your traditions, your joy, your support, and your presence make Minnetrista what it is.
We captured so many beautiful moments throughout the event, and we invite you to relive the magic—or see what you might have missed—by visiting our Flickr gallery. Feel free to download your favorites, share them with family, or save them as keepsakes from this year’s walk.
We’d also love to hear about your experience. Your feedback helps us grow, improve, and continue creating traditions that reflect and uplift our community.
Events like Enchanted Luminaria Walk happen because our community believes in the power of shared experiences. If the lights, music, and memories meant something to you, we’d be honored if you’d help us continue this work. Your generosity fuels everything we create—from exhibitions and gardens to family programs and community events. Enchanted Luminaria Walk was presented in partnership with: The Community Foundation of Muncie & Delaware County, Whitinger & Company, Peterman Brothers HVAC, Estep Burkey Simmons, and Old National Bank.
