Las Posadas: A Journey of Faith and Festivity in Mexico

“Las Posadas” derives from the Spanish word posada (lodging, or accommodation) which, in this case, refers to the inn from the Christian Nativity story...

It is a Mexican tradition that commemorates the journey of Mary and Joseph from Nazareth to Bethlehem in search of lodging for the birth of Jesus. Celebrated annually from December 16th to 24th, it is a vibrant blend of religious devotion, cultural expression, and joyous community celebration.

Origin and Historical Evolution

Las Posadas emerged in the 16th century during the early years of Spanish colonization in Mexico. Posadas were begun in Mexico in 1586 when Fray Diego de Soria, the director of the San Agustín de Acolman monastery (located in what is now the state of Mexico), obtained permission from the Pope to hold special Masses during nine days in December. Missionaries sought to Christianize the indigenous population by adopting and merging existing indigenous customs and ceremonies into the celebration of Christmas. The timing and activities of Las Posadas, exhibit several interesting correspondences with celebrations of pre-Hispanic cultures in Mexico:

• Winter solstice festival: The timing of Las Posadas, coinciding with the winter solstice (December 21st), aligns with pre-Hispanic celebrations honoring deities associated with rebirth and renewal. Aztecs, for example, celebrated Panquetzaliztli, honoring Xiuhtecuhtli, the fire god, and marking the renewal of the sun's path.
• According to the Aztec calendar, Tonantzin (the mother of the gods) was celebrated on the winter solstice, and she is still feted on December 12. The Aztecs also celebrated the birth of Huitzilopochtil, their god of war, during the month called Panquetzaliztli, which corresponds to our month of December. December 21 was considered to be the birth date of Huitzilopochtil.

• Ceremonial processions: Pre-Hispanic cultures had a strong tradition of public processions and performances, often involving offerings and prayers. The Las Posadas procession mirrors this with its festive singing, carrying of candles (symbolic of fire), and reenactment of a journey seeking divine favor.
• Community gatherings and feasting: Both Las Posadas and pre-Hispanic celebrations prioritized communal gatherings and feasting. Sharing food and drinks within the community strengthens social bonds and signifies gratitude for blessings received.
• Symbolic offerings: While offerings in pre-Hispanic ceremonies were often food, incense, or even human sacrifices, in Las Posadas, the tradition translates to breaking piñatas filled with candy, symbolizing divine blessings and overcoming evil.

Over time, Las Posadas evolved into a nine-day pilgrimage, mirroring Mary and Joseph's nine-day journey and representing the rejection faced by the holy couple before finding refuge in Bethlehem. The tradition spread throughout Mexico and neighboring countries, becoming deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of the region.

Contemporary Celebrations

The details of the celebration differ somewhat between various locals in Mexico but in general after the participants are assembled, the procession begins with a sound or visual indicator such as the exploding of bottle rockets overhead.

Processions: The central activity involves nightly processions with participants carrying candles, singing traditional songs like "Pidiendo Posada" (Requesting Lodging), and reenacting the search for refuge.

The procession is usually headed by a small child holding a candle inside a paper shade. Following are two people dressed as Mary and Joseph. Joseph is often leading a donkey and Mary is sometimes riding the donkey or walking beside Joseph - maybe depending of the relationship between Mary and the donkey? The rest of the procession participants follow behind, some, particularly children, dressed as attending angels or shepherds. Frequently following are pilgrims carrying images of the holy personages as well as musicians, leading the singing of traditional songs (e.g, Para Pedir Posada - asking for a place to stay).

Posada Host: Each night the procession stops at one of the pre-designated houses (”inns”). The resident of the home responds by singing a song and Mary and Joseph are invited to enter along with a group of guests. Everyone then kneels around the Nativity scene and prays (typically the Rosary). The evening culminates with the breaking of piñatas filled with candy and small gifts, and communal feasting and merrymaking.

Symbolism: The piñatas symbolize temptation and overcoming evil, while the candy inside represents divine blessings. The songs narrate the biblical story, reminding participants of the significance of the celebration.

Food and Festivities: Traditional Mexican dishes like tamales, atole (a warm corn drink), and pozole (a spicy stew) are often served, adding to the festive atmosphere. Music, dancing, and games add to the joyous spirit of the occasion.

Beyond Religion: While rooted in religious devotion, Las Posadas transcend purely religious significance. They serve as a powerful social glue, strengthening community bonds and fostering a sense of togetherness. It's a time for families and friends to reconnect, share laughter, and celebrate the anticipation of Christmas.

Las Posadas are a testament to the resilience and creativity of Mexican culture. This centuries-old tradition continues to thrive, adapting to modern times while preserving its core values of faith, community, and joyous celebration. As the festive songs echo through the streets and twinkling lights illuminate the night, Las Posadas remind us of the importance of hospitality, compassion, and the enduring spirit of hope and renewal.