How to Celebrate Christmas and New Year's in Mexico

There are many special traditions surrounding Christmas in Mexico. Some of these
originated in Spain and others developed due to Mexico's particular history. The
festivities surrounding Christmas last through much of the month of December, but
in fact, the Christmas season isn't well and truly over until January 6th.

1- Nacimientos

The nacimiento is usually set up on December 16th (the day that the Posadas
begin), the baby Jesus is added at night on December 24th and the three kings
are added on January 5th.

Pastorelas

Pastorelas are theatrical presentations of the shepherds (los pastores) on their way
to see baby Jesus. These originated during Mexico's colonial period as a way to
teach the native people about Catholic dogma, but have changed over time and
are now light-hearted comedic presentations

Christmas Posadas

The Posadas take place on the nine days preceding Christmas. From the 16th to
the 24th processions reenact Mary and Joseph's search for shelter in Bethlehem.
These processions lead to a different house every night for the culmination of the
posada - a fiesta, which will usually include one or more piñatas.

Nochebuena

Christmas Eve is called Nochebuena in Spanish. This is the night of the

last posada. Many people attend midnight mass and then have a dinner together
with their families. Christmas Day is generally a quiet day. Gifts are not
traditionally exchanged on Christmas, but this is changing, and Santa Claus is
becoming increasingly more prominent in Mexican Christmas celebrations.

Holiday Foods

Of course, food plays a big part in any holiday celebration, and there are many
foods that are associated with this time of year in Mexico. From ensalada  de
Noche Buena to ponche  Navideño, here is some background about the foods
consumed at Christmas along with some links to recipes: Mexican Christmas
Foods.
New year

Most Mexicans celebrate New Year's Eve by having a late-night dinner with their
families. Those who want to party generally go out afterwards, so if you're looking
for a night out on the town, be prepared for things to really get going after
midnight

Día de Reyes

January 6th is Epiphany, celebrated in Mexico as Día de Reyes "King's Day." This
is when children traditionally receive gifts, brought by the three wise men. Many
children now receive gifts both on Christmas and on King's Day.

On this day it is also customary to share a Rosca de Reyes among friends and

family. This is a special sweet bread in the shape of a wreath with a miniature baby
Jesus figure inside..