Mexico’s Festive Christmas Celebrations- A Glimpse into Traditional Customs and Joyous Celebrations
What does Mexico celebrate for Christmas? The answer is a vibrant and culturally rich holiday season that is steeped in tradition and joy. Mexico’s Christmas celebrations, known as “Navidad,” are a blend of indigenous, Spanish, and Catholic influences, creating a unique and festive atmosphere that is both religious and secular.
Mexican Christmas celebrations begin with the “Posadas,” which is a nine-day processional that commemorates the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem. The Posadas are celebrated from December 16th to December 24th, with families gathering to sing carols, pray, and reenact the biblical story. Each night, a different family member is chosen to act as Mary and Joseph, while the rest of the group guides them to the “Posada,” which symbolizes the inn where they were turned away.
On December 24th, the day before Christmas, families gather for the “Noche Buena” or “Christmas Eve” celebration. This is a time for feasting and joy, with traditional Mexican dishes such as “piñata,” “tamales,” “posole,” and “mole” being served. The piñata, filled with candies, toys, and small gifts, is broken by the children, symbolizing the breaking of the chains of sin.
On Christmas Day, families often visit churches to attend mass and exchange gifts. The day is filled with more feasting and celebration, with a special emphasis on the “Nacimiento,” or Nativity scene. The Nacimiento is a beautifully decorated manger scene that includes figures of Mary, Joseph, the baby Jesus, the three wise men, shepherds, and animals. These scenes are often displayed in homes, churches, and public squares, and are a central part of Mexican Christmas traditions.
Another significant aspect of Mexican Christmas is the “Pavo en Escabeche,” a dish of pickled turkey that is traditionally served on Christmas Eve. The dish is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the family.
The holiday season in Mexico is also marked by the presence of “Peregrinos,” or pilgrims, who travel to the town of Taxco to visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The basilica is a popular pilgrimage site, and many Mexicans believe that visiting the shrine during the Christmas season brings blessings and protection for the year ahead.
In conclusion, Mexico celebrates Christmas with a mix of religious and secular traditions that are both unique and enchanting. From the “Posadas” to the “Noche Buena,” the holiday season in Mexico is a time of joy, family, and cultural heritage that is cherished by millions.
