What do Mexico do on Christmas? Mexico, with its rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions, celebrates Christmas in a manner that is both festive and deeply rooted in its history. The festive season in Mexico is marked by a blend of indigenous, Catholic, and European customs, creating a unique and colorful celebration that is cherished by millions.
Mexico’s Christmas celebrations begin early, with the Advent season starting four Sundays before Christmas. This period is characterized by the lighting of the Advent candles each Sunday, symbolizing the anticipation of the birth of Jesus. Families gather to decorate their homes with Christmas ornaments, including colorful paper chains, paper stars, and paper flowers, creating a festive atmosphere.
One of the most iconic Mexican Christmas traditions is the “Posadas,” which is a nine-day celebration that commemorates the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem. During Posadas, families and friends go from house to house, singing carols and asking for shelter, much like Mary and Joseph did. The hosts offer them food and drinks, and the final Posada is held on Christmas Eve, where the birth of Jesus is celebrated with a reenactment of the Nativity scene.
Christmas Eve, known as “Noche Buena,” is a major event in Mexico. It is customary for families to gather for a festive dinner, which often includes traditional dishes such as “Tamales,” “Pozole,” and “Piñata.” The dinner is followed by the “Paseo de las Luces,” a procession through the streets, where families and friends carry candles and light up the night with their glow.
The highlight of the Christmas celebrations in Mexico is the “Nacimiento,” or Nativity scene. It is a central feature in most Mexican homes and churches. The Nacimiento is a detailed depiction of the birth of Jesus, complete with the baby Jesus, Mary, Joseph, shepherds, angels, and the three wise men. The Nacimiento can be as simple as a few figures or as elaborate as a full-scale village, complete with houses, animals, and even a starry sky.
On Christmas Day, families continue to celebrate with more festivities, including church services and visits to family and friends. Children often receive gifts from “Papá Noel,” or Santa Claus, who is known as “Viejo Pascuero” in Mexico. The gifts are usually given on Christmas Eve, but some families wait until Christmas Day to open them.
In conclusion, Mexico’s Christmas celebrations are a blend of history, culture, and faith. The traditions are rich and diverse, offering a glimpse into the heart and soul of this beautiful country. What do Mexico do on Christmas? They create a magical and memorable celebration that is cherished by all who participate.
