Las Posadas
is both a Christmas tradition and a Remembrance
celebration
This special Christmas tradition begins
on December 16th. The word "posadas" mean "inn" or
"lodging". This festival celebrates the story of Joseph and
Mary searching for an inn where Mary could give birth.
To celebrate this festival, people go
door to door, knocking on doors, pretending to search for a place
where Joseph and Mary can stay. They carry lanterns and sing songs,
somewhat like caroling. They also carry an entire, and typically
large, nativity scene.
When they reach the spot where the
nativity scene will "spend the night" (by prearrangement),
they have a big feast. They do this for nine nights. The route is
carefully planned out. This holiday is a wonderful reminder of the
spirit of Christmas. It is also a very fun Christmas tradition,
enjoyed by everyone involved.
