Las Posadas: Nine Nights of Tradition Before Christmas
(December 16–24)
Each December, communities across Mexico and Mexican-American neighborhoods come together to celebrate Las Posadas, a nine-day tradition that honors Mary and Joseph’s journey in search of shelter before the birth of Jesus. More than a reenactment, Las Posadas is a living tradition—one filled with music, prayer, food, and a powerful sense of community.
The word posadas means “lodgings,” and each night leading up to Christmas Eve retells the story of Mary and Joseph as they go door to door asking for refuge.
A Night of Anticipation
“The adults gathered the children near the front door of the small house. In hushed voices they encouraged the little ones, ‘escuchen, escuchen…’”
As giggles turned into quiet anticipation, the children began to hear soft voices outside—first faint, then clearer. Footsteps followed. Singing grew louder. When the door finally opened, the familiar sound of “Pedir Posada” filled the home. Neighbors stood together, candles in hand, singing in unison as they asked to be welcomed inside. After much singing, the door opened—and the celebration began.
Re-Creating the Journey
Each night of Las Posadas, a different home is chosen to host the festivities. That family plays the role of the innkeepers, while others take turns portraying those who turn Mary and Joseph away. Neighbors gather down the street to form a procession, symbolizing the holy journey.
Sometimes the procession includes musicians, costumes, and small statues of Mary and Joseph. Often, a child dressed as an angel leads the group. At each house, the group sings Pedir Posada, asking for shelter—only to be turned away again and again. This continues until the final home, where the door is finally opened and everyone is welcomed inside.
From Prayer to Celebration
Once inside, the group gathers around the nativity scene to pray together. A few songs may follow, and then the mood shifts from solemn to joyful as the posada turns into a fiesta.
Traditional favorites often include:
- Tamales shared with family and neighbors
- Ponche (hot fruit punch) served warm
- Buñuelos (thin fried pastries) sprinkled with sugar
- Colación, a sweet mix of candies for kids and adults
A piñata is broken, laughter fills the air, and families celebrate side by side. As the evening winds down, neighbors return to their homes—tired, happy, and already looking forward to the next night’s celebration.
Culminating on Noche Buena
Las Posadas concludes on December 24th, known as Noche Buena or “Holy Night,” marking the final night before Christmas. By then, the story has been retold, bonds have been strengthened, and the true spirit of the season—faith, generosity, and togetherness—has been fully embraced.