The traditional Christmas holidays mark one of the liveliest seasons of the year. It is a time characterized by celebrations whose history dates back to the Spanish colonization. As in many parts of the world, in Mexico the last month of the year is used to spend time with friends and family in the midst of a festive atmosphere that floods the houses with colors, flavors and aromas typical of the season.
The inns
Las Posadas last nine days: they begin on December 16 and end on the 24th of the same month on the eve of Christmas. These celebrations allude to the pilgrimage of Joseph and the Virgin Mary in search of an inn to rest. In accordance with tradition, the hosts of the party take the role of innkeepers, while the guests, with lighted candles, make the request for posada at the entrance of the house singing verses to music.
The piñatas
An essential element in the December inns. For its artisanal elaboration, different designs and materials are used, the most traditional is that which represents a star, from which seven peaks or rays of light that symbolize the seven deadly sins emerge. The piñata can be made of clay or cardboard and is prepared by filling it with candied candies and seasonal Mexican fruits.
Why are they called holidays?
They are called “December” because they are related to the time of December when Christmas is celebrated and when the child God is born. The date of birth of Jesus of Nazareth is not indicated in the Gospels or in any secular text, but most scholars assume a date between 6 BC. C. and 4 a. C. The historical evidence is too ambiguous to allow a definitive dating, but the date has been estimated through known historical events.