What do people in Mexico do on December 25th? December 25th, also known as Navidad, is a time of joy, celebration, and family in Mexico. Unlike many other countries, the celebration of Christmas in Mexico is not just limited to the day itself but extends over several days, creating a festive atmosphere that is both unique and vibrant.
The Mexican Christmas celebration begins with Las Posadas, a nine-day festival that starts on December 16th and ends on December 24th. During this period, families and friends gather to reenact the biblical story of Mary and Joseph’s search for a place to stay in Bethlehem. The festival involves processions, singing, and the traditional “Posada” game, where participants search for a place to stay, symbolizing the journey of Mary and Joseph.
On December 25th, families wake up early to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The day starts with a traditional Mexican breakfast, which includes “pan de muerto” (bread of the dead), a sweet bread with anise flavor, and “pavo en salsa roja” (turkey in red sauce). The breakfast is followed by a visit to the church for a mass, where families participate in the religious aspects of Christmas.
After the mass, families return home to continue the celebrations. The day is filled with laughter, food, and festive activities. Children often receive gifts from “Papá Noel” (Santa Claus), who is known as “El Niño Dios” (The Child God) in Mexico. Unlike Santa Claus in other countries, El Niño Dios is depicted as a young boy, dressed in traditional Mexican attire.
One of the most iconic customs of Christmas in Mexico is the “nacimiento,” or nativity scene. Every home displays a nativity scene, which includes a manger, Joseph, Mary, the baby Jesus, and various shepherds and animals. The nacimiento is often accompanied by a “piñata,” a large, colorful container filled with toys and candy. Children gather around the piñata and take turns hitting it with a stick until it breaks open, releasing the toys and candy inside.
The celebrations continue into the evening with a special dinner, known as “La Noche Buena” (The Good Night). This dinner is a lavish affair, featuring a variety of traditional Mexican dishes, such as “tamales,” “mole,” and “chiles rellenos.” The dinner is followed by more gift-giving and festive activities, ensuring that the spirit of Christmas remains alive throughout the night.
In conclusion, what do people in Mexico do on December 25th? They celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ with a blend of religious and cultural traditions, creating a joyful and festive atmosphere that is cherished by all. From the early morning mass to the late-night celebrations, Christmas in Mexico is a time for family, friends, and the sharing of love and joy.
