by Monica Hartlief
Christmas in Mexico is a big deal and many people take the last 2 weeks of the year off. So don’t try to get anything done after the 15th of this month because it simply won’t happen!
Christmas is a time to party, to spend time with the family, to travel and to relax. In order to prepare for the Holy Celebration the Mexicans have Posadas which are held every night from the 16th until the 24th of December.
Christmas tree and nativity scene in front of the Palacio Municipal - Playa del Carmen
A Posada is a re-creation of Mary (on a donkey) and Joseph searching for a “room at the inn” or the posada. They are accompanied by children and teenagers, called Los Peregrinos, that go around singing and knocking on doors asking for lodging for the tired and weary couple. Traditionally, each family in a neighborhood will hold a Posada in their home during the days leading up to Noche Buena, Christmas Eve. Once the group of guests is let in the home by “the innkeepers” they kneel down around the nativity scene, to pray and sing. After this it is party time with Piñata for the children and treats for everyone.
Festivities culminate on Noche Buena, when the last Posada arrives at the church where a late night mass is held, la Misa de Gallo. After La Misa de Gallo families go home for a traditional Christmas supper and more celebrations that will continue until late at night or very early in the morning. Therefore the following day, Christmas day, is reserved for much needed rest and relaxation.
Susan de Lima and Monica Hartlief at Latido de Mexico would like to wish you Feliz Navidad y Prospero Año Nuevo! We hope you will be in Playa del Carmen or the Riviera Maya to enjoy the festivities. If not… there is always next year!
Merry Christmas everybody.
