What are posadas? An explainer of this beautiful Latino tradition

Posadas are like Christmas caroling, except our tradition is more like a fiesta—and we wouldn’t have it any other way!

For many in the Latino community, celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ doesn’t solely happen on Christmas Day. Instead, we like to commemorate the entire journey that Joseph and Mary made from Nazareth to Bethlehem—by having a Christmas party for nine straight days, otherwise known as posadas. Posadas can be considered the equivalent of Christmas caroling, except our tradition is more like a fiesta. 

The word “posada” is Spanish for lodging, accommodation, inn, etc. This religious festival is celebrated in Mexico and the US, begins on Dec. 16, and lasts through Dec. 24—nine days leading up to the birth of Jesus.

However, posadas can generally take place any time during the month of December because who doesn’t love holiday parties? And, just like Easter, Latinos like to go all out when it comes to posadas, which means reenacting scenes that involve Jesus, Mary, and Joseph will most likely be part of the fiesta. 

The purpose of posadas is to commemorate the journey that Joseph and Mary made from Nazareth to Bethlehem in search of a safe refuge where Mary could give birth to the baby Jesus. When they were unable to find lodging in Bethlehem, Joseph and Mary were forced to seek shelter in a stable where the Christ Child was born.

I have fond memories of participating in posadas, where people would dress up and lead a procession to various houses (typically to people who are expecting you). A child dressed as an angel would lead the procession, with musicians and singers following behind, and we’d all have a candle in hand.

We’d sing outside someone’s home with the hope that they’d give us shelter—just like how Joseph and Mary asked for lodging. But this ritual doesn’t always include a warm welcome. Just as Joseph and Mary were rejected during their journey, posada participants may have to go to another house until someone lets them in. It’s a scripted tradition but fun for children because sometimes we had no idea if anyone would let us in!

Eventually, when a host lets in the people in the procession, they are welcomed with warm treats like hot chocolate, champurrado, or pan dulce—and if they’re really lucky, they get to break a piñata.

Posadas are a joyful participatory event that allows people to gather during the holidays and sing holiday songs. It’s OK to make the event all your own, so feel free to sing any holiday song you want!

Depending on the guests and organizers, you can make a posada super religious or not, which means you can include scripture verses during or after the singing or leave them out. 

Posadas can be whatever you’d like, but always remember to be respectful and not make a mockery of this beautiful Latino tradition. That means don’t wear stereotypical Mexican attire, and if you don’t know the Spanish songs, just stick to the English holiday songs. 

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2023. 

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