8 Facts About Latin American Christmas Traditions
Christmas is a beloved holiday worldwide, with different cultures and countries having their own unique traditions. In Latin America, Christmas celebrations are steeped in religious and cultural traditions that have been passed down for generations. Here are eight facts about some of the most fascinating Latin American Christmas traditions.
1. Las Posadas
Las Posadas is a nine-day long celebration that takes place in Mexico and some other parts of Latin America. It starts on December 16th and ends on Christmas Eve. Las Posadas is a reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s search for lodging in Bethlehem. In the festivities, two children are chosen to dress up as Mary and Joseph, who go from house to house looking for shelter. The people in each house sing a song in response to Mary and Joseph’s plea for shelter. Finally, when Mary and Joseph find a home that accepts them, there is a big celebration with food, music, and fireworks.
2. Poinsettias
The Poinsettia is a plant native to Mexico and Central America. It is believed that the Poinsettia became associated with Christmas because of a legend about a young girl who plucked weeds from the roadside to put in front of the church altar for Jesus. The weeds miraculously turned into Poinsettias. Today, Poinsettias are commonly used in holiday decorations and displays, especially in Latin American countries.
3. Noche Buena
Noche Buena, or “Good Night,” is the Latin American equivalent of Christmas Eve. It is traditionally celebrated with a late-night feast featuring traditional dishes like tamales, bacalao (cod), and roast pork. In many Latin American countries, gifts are exchanged on Noche Buena rather than on Christmas Day.
4. La Navidad
In many Latin American countries, Christmas Day is called La Navidad. On this day, families attend church together and then have a big meal at home. Peruvian families often enjoy turkey, while in other parts of Latin America, roast pork or beef is more common.
5. Fireworks
Fireworks are a big part of Latin American Christmas celebrations. In some countries, fireworks are set off at midnight on Christmas Eve to celebrate the birth of Jesus. In other countries, such as Venezuela, fireworks are set off throughout the season, adding to the festive atmosphere.
6. Nacimiento
“El Nacimiento,” which means “The Nativity,” is a popular decoration in Latin American homes. It is an elaborate display that includes figurines representing the Holy Family, the Wise Men, and farm animals. Some homes have highly detailed “Nacimientos” that include entire villages, complete with houses, markets, and small figurines dressed in traditional attire.
7. Villancicos
Villancicos are traditional Christmas carols sung throughout Latin America. Some of the most popular songs include “El Burrito Sabanero” from Venezuela, “Noche de Paz” which is the Spanish version of “Silent Night,” and “Los Peces en el Río” from Spain. Villancicos are often sung as part of Las Posadas celebrations.
8. Three Kings Day
Three Kings Day, or “Dia de los Reyes Magos”, is celebrated on January 6th throughout Latin America. On this day, it is traditional for children to receive gifts from the Wise Men rather than from Santa Claus. In some countries, children leave their shoes outside the door on the night of January 5th, hoping that the Wise Men will fill them with presents in the morning.
In conclusion, Christmas traditions in Latin America are steeped in culture and religion, each with their own unique twist on popular traditions. Whether it’s the colorful “Nacimientos” or the late-night feast on Noche Buena, Latin Americans know how to celebrate the holiday season in style.