Top Mexican Christmas Traditions

1. Las Posadas (16th–24th December)

One of the most iconic Mexican Christmas traditions, Las Posadas commemorates Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem. These nine days of celebrations feature:
                •              Candlelit processions 🕯️
                •              Traditional Christmas carols 🎶
                •              Piñatas filled with sweets and fruits 🌟
                •              Hot ponche (a spiced fruit punch) 🍹, often spiked with tequila or mezcal 🥃

Posadas are not just religious—they’re a time for parties with family and friends, blending faith with festivity.

2. Elaborate Nativity Scenes

In Mexico, Nativity scenes (nacimientos) are more than decoration—they’re works of art. Families create intricate displays featuring the Holy Family, shepherds, and the Three Wise Men.

On Christmas Eve, Baby Jesus is added to the manger during a heartfelt family ceremony. Many Mexican homes consider the nacimiento even more important than a Christmas tree!

3. Nochebuena (Christmas Eve)

The highlight of the holiday season is Nochebuena, or Christmas Eve, when families gather for a lavish dinner. The menu often includes:
                •              Turkey 🦃
                •              Romeritos with mole (greens in a savoury sauce) 🍃
                •              Bacalao (salted cod) 🐟
                •              Tamales 🌽
                •              Ensalada de manzana (apple salad) 🍏

After dinner, gifts are exchanged with family members who won’t be seen on Christmas Day. The night is filled with music, laughter, and even tequila or mezcal 🥃.

4. Christmas Day (25th December)

Unlike Christmas Eve, Christmas Day in Mexico is a quieter celebration. Children wake up excited to open presents under the tree 🎁, and families enjoy a relaxed day together.

5. The Guadalupe-Reyes Marathon

Mexican Christmas traditions don’t stop on the 25th! The festive season continues with the Guadalupe-Reyes Marathon, starting on the 12th of December (Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe 🌹) and ending on the 2nd of February (Candlemas 🎭).

Highlights include:
                •              Three Kings’ Day (6th January): Children receive gifts, and families share a sweet bread called Rosca de Reyes.
                •              Candlemas (2nd February): Whoever finds the Baby Jesus figurine in the Rosca De Reyes, hosts a tamale feast to conclude the season.

6. Pastorelas: A Theatrical Treat

Mexican Christmas isn’t complete without pastorelas, comical plays retelling the shepherds’ journey to meet Baby Jesus. Often performed with local humour, they add a theatrical touch to the festive season.

Why Christmas in Mexico is Special

Christmas in Mexico is a heartfelt celebration of faith, family, and culture. The traditions—from Las Posadas to the grand Nochebuena dinner—highlight the importance of community and togetherness. Whether you’re sharing tamales on Candlemas or breaking a piñata under a starry sky, every moment is filled with love and joy.