In a land of intense traditions, Christmas in Mexico is no exception. Tourists during this period of the year will be able to taste not only the beauty and spirituality of Mexican culture, but also the customs dating back thousands of years.
Christmas celebrations begin in mid-December with Las Posadas, processions in the light of candles, which evoke the journey of Mary and Joseph in search of a refuge to pass the divine night, narrated in the Bible. According to tradition, children follow the procession singing and asking for hospitality and after a lot of wandering they are finally warmly welcomed in a house where the feast begins. Children are donated sweets, toys. Another Christmas tradition is the "piñata" pot full of candies, while adults celebrate with lunches, dances and music.
The traditional crib or at least the hut of the Nativity is located in the houses. They are often made of terracotta and are usually so elaborate and refined that require the use of an entire room. Many Mexican families have been transmitting the crib for generations
One of the most unusual Christmas celebrations takes place in Oaxaca, on December 23rd, known as the Fiesta de los Rabanos, the feast of the turnips. The craftsmen exhibit in their stalls the small objects obtained from the inlaid turnips, which take on the most surprising forms, including the characters of the Nativity.
In some regions of Mexico, we do not exchange gifts on Christmas day. Instead of waiting for Santa Claus on December 25, children await the visit of the Magi on January 6. Children wake up early to find the little gifts strung in their stockings. On the eve of January 6 relatives and friends gather to cut the traditional donut, "Rosca de Reyes", with a small doll hidden inside. Who finds the doll, must give a feast on the day of Candelora, on February 2.
In the communities where tradition is most felt, a ring is hidden in the cake, which assures, to those who find it, marriage by the year, or a die that takes a year of happiness as a single person.
