The Lighting of the Luminaries

It is one of the most indescribable feelings to see all the luminaria lit. This event, called the Ceremony of Hope is best described by words from the Relay for Life website:

Highlighting the evening is a luminaria Ceremony of Hope held after dark to honor cancer survivors and to remember loved ones lost to cancer. The luminaria candles line the track and are left burning throughout the night to remind participants of the incredible importance of their contributions.

There is great solemness involved in the event, especially during the reading of the names of people to honor or memorialize. The only lights present in the stadium are those of the luminaria and as the names are read, the rest of the participants silently walk the track.