Christmas Around the World, Part 3 – Mexico
During this Advent season, we are continuing our tradition of taking a trip around the world, exploring Christmas traditions from different countries. This week, we’re headed to Mexico, where the celebrations are varied and full of joy!
Christmas traditions in Mexico vary from region to region, and while we’ve chosen a few to highlight here, there are more than we could possibly share in a single post. One special tradition is nativity scenes, or nacimientos, that go well beyond what is common in the United States. The displays are huge and incredibly detailed; some even fill entire rooms and include a wide range of people and buildings in addition to the manger itself.
Another unique tradition is the pastorela, or shepherds play. Pastorelas depict the shepherds on their way to see the baby Jesus when they are waylaid by the devil. The Archangel Michael appears to fight him off, and the shepherds are able to resume their journey.
A tradition specific to the state of Oaxaca, with a history extending back to 1897, is called Noche de Rábanos, or Night of the Radishes. On December 23, huge radishes, some as large as 6.5 pounds, are carved into incredibly detailed scenes as part of a competition. There are different categories, and prizes! There is a photo of one of these displays here, but you will definitely want to search online for additional photos, because they are just as amazing as you’d hope. And while you may not be able to find 6-pound radishes around here, you may feel inspired to carve radishes with your family. If you do, we beseech you to share photos with us!
Finally, we’d like to highlight a tradition that you have the opportunity to experience here at Desert Mission this very evening: Las Posadas! In Mexico, it begins on December 16, with children leading a procession from house to house, reenacting Mary and Joseph searching for a place to stay. They are refused at every door until they reach a prearranged home where a party is waiting! Our party will include mariachi music, food, and a petting zoo; in Mexico, you might find pinatas and fireworks as well.
If you’d like to continue your Las Posadas celebration at home, your family can buy a pinata, or...you can make one! It’s easier than you’d think, if you follow these directions.
You can also add a special Mexican dish to your celebration. In Mexico, Las Posadas lasts until Christmas Eve, or Noche Buena. After the final Posada and before midnight church services, families have a special meal. Among the festive foods served is Ensalada Nochebuena, a salad whose recipe differs by region, but which might include things like beets, jicama, apples, and guava. If your family would like to try Ensalada Nochebuena, there is a yummy authentic recipe on the ‘Mexico in My Kitchen’ blog. If you don’t speak Spanish, you’ll want to click “Translate Page” to see the recipe in English.
We hope you’ll join us tonight for our Las Posadas celebration, and keep the festivities going until Christmas Eve, just like they do in Mexico. And don’t forget to share your family’s experiences with us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram!
