Christmas in Mexico

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Christmas 2019 in Vasco de Quiroga Plaza in Pátzcuaro 25

Christmas in Mexico (Navidad en México) involves a variety of traditions that stem from Mexico's form of Roman Catholicism and popular culture. The holiday season begins with December 12, the day of the Virgin of Guadalupe, and ends on January 6, with the celebration of the Three Kings Day (Día de los Reyes Magos).

Traditions

One of the most iconic symbols of Christmas in Mexico is the piñata. Traditionally, piñatas are star-shaped, representing the Star of Bethlehem, and are filled with fruits, candies, and other treats. Parties during the Christmas season often feature the breaking of a piñata.

Another significant tradition is the Posadas, which are communal celebrations held on each of the nine nights leading up to Christmas Eve (Nochebuena). These events reenact Mary and Joseph's search for lodging in Bethlehem. Participants often go from house to house, singing carols (villancicos) and being welcomed in to read passages of the bible and enjoy food and drink.

Christmas Eve is a major celebration that includes attending Midnight Mass (Misa de Gallo) and having a family feast. Traditional dishes might include tamales, bacalao (salted cod), and romeritos (a dish made with sprouts and potatoes in mole sauce).

Decorations

Homes and streets are decorated with luminarias (paper lanterns), farolitos (small, paper lanterns), and nacimientos (nativity scenes). The nativity scene is a central element of Christmas decorations, often elaborated with figures representing the Holy Family, shepherds, angels, and the Three Wise Men. These scenes are set up early in December and are completed with the arrival of the Wise Men figures on January 6.

Day of the Holy Innocents

On December 28, Mexico celebrates the Day of the Holy Innocents (Día de los Santos Inocentes), which is similar to April Fool's Day in other countries. People play pranks (inocentadas) on each other, and the media often publish false stories as a joke.

Three Kings Day

The holiday season concludes with the celebration of Three Kings Day on January 6. Children traditionally leave their shoes out the night before to find them filled with gifts from the Magi in the morning. Families also enjoy Rosca de Reyes, a special ring-shaped cake that contains a figurine of the baby Jesus. Whoever finds the figurine is expected to host a party on Candlemas (Día de la Candelaria) on February 2.

Conclusion

Christmas in Mexico is a vibrant and deeply religious holiday, filled with unique customs and celebrations that reflect the country's rich cultural heritage. From the spiritual preparations during Advent to the festive gatherings and communal meals, each tradition contributes to the season's significance.

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