Mexican Christmas traditions are great for families to transmit values, culture and history to their children.
It is true that many traditions are getting lost with the years but some communities stride to keep them alive!
We will show some of the most typical traditions that some Mexican families still have!
Without doubt Las Posadas is the most recognized and beautiful Mexican Christmas tradition. Las Posadas happen every day from December 16th to Christmas eve December 24th.
There is an enactment of the journey that Joseph and Mary took when they were looking door to door for a place to stay just before the birth of baby Jesus.
Two groups are formed, and all people carry small candles. One represents Jesus and Mary outside of the door and the other represents the people denying shelter inside the house. They each take turns singing the traditional song and walk from the front door to the side door to the back door simulating multiple houses. When the group reaches the last door, the people inside finally offers them shelter and they all sing a joyful chorus.
Also, family and friends usually pray the rosary to the Virgin Mary.
Then, kids break the piñata. Traditional piñatas have 7 spikes which represent the seven capital sins. They are all filled with candy which kids rush to get when the piñata breaks.
Lastly, family and friends eat Christmas traditional Mexican dishes such as tamales, buñuelos, ponche and other delicious food.
Nowadays, the term posada is used for any Chrismas party happening without regard of the traditional singing or praying.
Pastorelas is a play that has taken a comic and political tone. They use to be common in schools, and churches.
The basic plot is that a group of shepherds and the three wise men take a trip to meet baby Jesus. The shepherds usually play a comic role. They all encounter angels and the devil that introduce all kinds of challenges. At the end the angel San Gabriel triumphs over the devil.
Pastorelas is an effective way to teach children the biblical passage and to critique for adults common society problems.
Mexican Christmas traditions are full of teaching opportunities and reflects the richness of the Mexican folk culure.
If you want us to include another Mexican tradition that your family practiced during Christmas season, please let us know in the comments section below and we will include it in this page. Thank you and Feliz Navidad!
Mexican Clothing › Party › Christmas Traditions
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