What does Mexico call Christmas? In Mexico, Christmas is known as “Navidad,” a term that is widely used across the country to refer to the festive season. This holiday is deeply rooted in Mexican culture and tradition, blending elements of Catholicism with indigenous practices and Spanish influences. Navidad in Mexico is a time of joy, family gatherings, and the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
The Mexican celebration of Navidad begins with “El Posadas,” a nine-day festival that starts on December 16th and ends on December 24th. During this period, families and friends go from house to house, asking for shelter for Mary and Joseph, who were traveling to Bethlehem. This tradition symbolizes the search for Jesus’ birthplace and is accompanied by prayer, songs, and the distribution of tamales and atole, a traditional Mexican drink made from cornmeal and water.
On Christmas Eve, known as “Noche Buena,” families come together to celebrate the birth of Jesus. This evening is filled with delicious food, lively music, and the exchange of gifts. One of the most iconic dishes served during Noche Buena is “piñata,” a colorful container filled with candies, toys, and small gifts. Children gather around the piñata, blindfolded, and try to break it open with a stick, symbolizing the breaking of the material world to reach the spiritual.
Christmas Day in Mexico is a time for family reunions and the sharing of love and gratitude. Families gather to enjoy a feast, which often includes dishes like “pavo relleno” (stuffed turkey), “tamales,” “flan,” and “chocolate,” among others. The day is filled with laughter, music, and the exchange of gifts, as families show their appreciation for one another.
Another significant aspect of Navidad in Mexico is the presence of “los reyes magos,” or the three wise men, who are believed to have visited the baby Jesus. On January 6th, known as “Día de los Reyes,” children wake up to find gifts left by the three wise men under their beds. This day is also celebrated with parades, music, and the distribution of toys to the less fortunate.
In conclusion, Navidad in Mexico is a vibrant and festive celebration that reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage. It is a time for family, joy, and the appreciation of life’s blessings. What does Mexico call Christmas? Navidad, a holiday that brings people together and fosters a sense of unity and love.
