Festival: Las Posadas

Las Posadas is a holiday celebrated in many Latin American countries, including Mexico, Guatemala, and parts of the United States. It is a nine-day celebration that starts on December 16th and ends on December 24th.

The word “posada” means “inn” in Spanish, and Las Posadas is a reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s search for a place to stay in Bethlehem. During the nine days of Las Posadas, children and adults dress up as Mary and Joseph and go from house to house, asking for shelter, just like Mary and Joseph did in the Bible.

At each house, the group sings a traditional song asking for lodging, and the homeowners sing back, refusing them. Eventually, the group is allowed to enter and is welcomed with food, drinks, and music.

The celebration is a time for families and communities to come together and remember the story of the birth of Jesus. It’s also a time for giving and sharing, as families often exchange gifts, especially on Christmas Eve.

If you’re interested in celebrating Las Posadas, you can learn the traditional songs and join a local group. It’s a wonderful way to experience the rich culture and history of Latin America and to celebrate the spirit of the holiday season.

Recommended Resources

• Las Posadas for kids – Twinkl (Website Link)
• Las Posadas – Britannica Kids (Website Link)
• All about Las Posadas Teaching Resources (Website Link)