Traditional Mexican Posadas

pmyucatan23
Dec 8, 2025
3 min read

When we think of Christmas posadas in Mexico, warm punch, lights, piñatas, little candy baskets, and the festive atmosphere immediately come to mind. However, behind this beloved celebration lies a deep history that blends Indigenous traditions, religious rituals, and cultural elements that have evolved over time.

History.

Before the arrival of the Spanish, the Aztecs celebrated the month of Panquetzaliztli in December, dedicated to Huitzilopochtli, the god of war. This festivity began on December 6 and lasted 20 days. During this period, flags were placed on fruit trees and banners were hung in temples as part of the commemoration.

With the Spanish conquest, these celebrations changed and gave way to what were called misas de aguinaldo, held from December 16 to 24. During these outdoor masses, biblical passages were read and episodes of the Nativity were reenacted, which we now know as pastorelas. At the end, attendees received small gifts known as aguinaldos. Over time, these practices evolved into the posadas we celebrate today.

The tradition of asking for posada

One of the most iconic elements of this celebration is the singing. During the procession, the groups divide into:

Pilgrims (outside, asking for shelter)
Hosts (inside, denying it until the very end)

The moment culminates with the song that symbolically opens the doors:

“Enter, holy pilgrims, pilgrims,receive this humble place. And although this home is poor, this home,I offer it to you with all my heart.”

This ritual symbolizes the journey Mary and Joseph made as they searched for shelter before the birth of Jesus.

Pre-Christmas celebrations filled with community togetherness

Although many places no longer preserve the full traditional liturgy, posadas are still a reason for neighbors, friends, and families to gather. In some neighborhoods and communities, the custom of everyone contributing is still maintained:

Someone brings the punch
Another organizes the piñata
Someone else takes charge of the carols
Others decorate the space

For centuries, posadas have been one of Mexico’s most important social traditions, especially in communities where neighborly connection is essential.

Ponche: the warm heart of the posada

Nothing goes better with a cold December night than a cup of ponche. This drink is made by boiling fruits and spices, creating an unforgettable aroma.

Most common fruits: Sugar cane, tejocote, guava, apple, pineapple, plum, orange, tangerine, apricot, lemon, raisins.

Typical spices: Cinnamon, clove, anise, allspice, hibiscus, piloncillo, black tea or lemon tea.

Every family has its own special recipe… and some versions include a splash of rum or tequila to “keep the cold away.”

The piñata, the most anticipated moment :)

The piñata is an essential symbol; traditionally, it has seven points representing the seven deadly sins, and breaking it symbolizes the triumph of good over evil.

The song that accompanies the hits is a must:

“Dale, dale, dale, no pierdas el tino…”

Until finally… the candy bursts out!! Children and adults run to gather as much as they can.

Posadas are much more than a December tradition; they are a reminder of community, of opening our doors and sharing what we have. With songs, lights, and warm punch, they bring us together to celebrate unity, generosity, and the joy of being with one another. Over time they have changed, but they remain a space where people gather, connect, and keep the essence of Christmas in Mexico alive.

Written by Sophia :)>3

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