Christmas in Mexico

In Mexico, Christmas celebrations begin December 12th with the religious feast “Dia de la Virgen de Guadalupe.” Many make the pilgrimage to the Basilica of Guadalupe in Mexico City to see the Virgin Mary. Fireworks, parades and live bands performing in the streets keep the festivities going.

A recurring event played out all over Mexico begins December 16. It is a re-enactment of the night when Jesus was born depicting Mary and Joseph looking for somewhere they could stay and deliver the child. This is called the "posada." The posada is not complete without a choir of small children who knock on doors on behalf of the Blessed Family. Each night, these processions end at a different house for fiestas with food and pinatas.

“Pastorelas” are also performed. These outdoor plays depict Christian legends and ideals and tell the story of the birth of the Savior. A lasting favorite is the annual pastorelas performed on December 24 at the steps of San Andres Church. Poinsettia plants are exchanged as it is known to be the flower of the holy night.

Food flows during the “Nochebuena,” Christmas Eve. This feast is shared by family and friends and parties last until dawn. This makes Christmas day very quiet as people rest and recover from the overnight festivities. It’s not uncommon for everyone in Mexico to take a vacation during the last two weeks of the year for these celebrations with family and friends.

The main decoration is the “nacimientos” or the nativity scene. It may be found everywhere in Mexico from homes to businesses, even churches. Unlike nativity scenes in the U.S., however, nacimientos are much wider in scale, featuring entire villages made out of painted paper, sand, moss, sawdust and other materials. It also features 12 figures and is on display until February 2!

Within the season, they also celebrate “Dia de los Santos Inocentes”, where they believe that they could borrow something and not return it. Sounds a little bit like our April Fool's Day.

We love learning how everyone celebrates Christmas. Keep spreading the Christmas cheer by giving your friends in Mexico a Christmas gift that is timeless. One of our treasured Nativity decor kits would be a special addition to their home! ¡Feliz Navidad!