What Are Las Posadas?

If you’ve ever been lucky enough to experience Christmas season in Mexico, chances are you’ve heard about Las Posadas—a holiday tradition that blends faith, family, and fun into nine unforgettable nights. But what are Las Posadas? Are they religious events, holiday parties, or a mix of both? Let’s take a look at this beloved Mexican celebration, from its sacred origins to its modern-day revelry.

The Biblical Backstory and the History of Las Posadas

According to the Gospel of Luke, Joseph and his very pregnant wife, Mary, traveled from Nazareth to Bethlehem to participate in a census ordered by the Roman emperor Caesar Augustus. Upon arriving, they found the local inns fully booked. After being turned away repeatedly, they finally found shelter in a stable, where Jesus was born and laid in a manger.

In Spanish, the word posada means “inn” or “shelter,” which makes perfect sense given the tradition’s roots. Las Posadas reenact the biblical journey of Mary and Joseph searching for a place to stay in Bethlehem before the birth of Jesus. The tradition serves as a reminder of faith, hospitality, and perseverance—and maybe a little nudge to always have a guest room ready.

Today, the term “posada” has expanded far beyond its religious beginnings. It’s become a catch-all for any festive holiday gathering, whether it’s a family get-together, an open house party, or even the classic company holiday bash (yes, the one where someone inevitably does karaoke after too much ponche). Businesses across Mexico throw their own posadas to show appreciation for employees, complete with food, music, and good-natured chaos.

But Las Posadas didn’t always look the way they do now. This tradition dates way back to the 16th century.

A 500-Year-Old Tradition

Las Posadas are preparatory celebrations held daily during the nine days leading up to Christmas, from December 16 to 24. Their origins date back to 1587, when an effort was made to replace the Indigenous festivities dedicated to Huitzilopochtli, the God of War, during the month of Panquetzaliztli.

These pre-Columbian celebrations, which took place from December 7 to 26 on the Christian calendar, coincided nicely with the celebrations of the Nativity. Spanish missionaries arrived in Mexico and saw an opportunity to spread Christianity by incorporating the imagery and stories into local Indigenous festivities.

To adapt these traditions to Christianity, the Augustinian friar Diego Soria, from the now ex-convent of San Agustín de Acolman in the State of Mexico, obtained permission from Pope Sixtus V to hold special masses. These masses included passages and reenactments of the Nativity, which eventually gave rise to the tradition of pastorelas (Nativity plays). Over time, Las Posadas evolved into a uniquely Mexican celebration.

What to Expect at a Posada

Each of the nine days of Las Posadas has a different meaning, humility, strength, detachment, charity, trust, justice, purity, joy, and generosity. Those who celebrate according to tradition host each night at a different home or on a different block.

If you’re invited to a posada, get ready for an evening full of tradition and joy. Family members, friends and/or neighbors gather and divide into two groups: the “innkeepers” inside the house and the “pilgrims” outside, carrying lit candles, a Nativity scene, and people (very often children) in costume depicting Joseph, Mary and an angel. Bonus points if your posada has a real donkey!

The event starts with a procession, where participants carry candles from house to house and sing Canto para Pedir Posada, a traditional a cappella call-and-response song. You can find the lyrics below.

Once the symbolic doors open and the troupe is granted “posada”, the party begins. Expect a mix of heartfelt tradition and lively celebration. There’s food (lots of it), music, and of course, the iconic star-shaped piñata. The piñata will be filled with candies, fruits, and sometimes even tiny toys. Smashing the piñata on Christmas Eve is as much about fun as it is about symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.

Food, Drinks, and Festive Flavors of Las Posadas

No posada is complete without a spread of traditional Mexican holiday dishes. Here’s a sneak peek at what might be on the menu:

• Tamales: These steamed corn masa treats are filled with everything from pork to cheese to sweet fillings, wrapped up in corn husks or banana leaves.
• Ponche Navideño: Think of it as Mexico’s answer to mulled cider. This warm fruit punch is made with seasonal goodies like tejocotes (a tangy fruit), guava, tamarind, and cinnamon. Feeling festive? A splash of tequila or rum takes it to the next level.
• Buñuelos: These crispy fried dough disks are dusted with sugar or drizzled with syrup—a sweet finish to any posada feast.
• Atole: This warm, thick beverage made from corn masa and flavored with vanilla, chocolate, or cinnamon is like a cozy hug in a cup.

Modern Posadas: From Tradition to Party Mode

Over the years, Las Posadas has kept its traditional elements while also evolving to include modern twists. For example, many families and friends use posadas as an excuse to throw fabulous holiday parties. Businesses also jump on the bandwagon, hosting posadas for employees as a way to show appreciation and celebrate the season. These events might not have processions or piñatas, but you can bet there will be plenty of food, drinks, and lively conversation.

Another contemporary spin is the open house-style posada, where people drop in throughout the evening to mingle, snack, and soak up the holiday spirit. While the religious origins remain a key part of the tradition, the flexibility of modern posadas means there’s something for everyone.

Songs That Bring the Tradition to Life

One of the highlights of any posada is the music, particularly the Canto para Pedir Posada. This traditional song involves a back-and-forth exchange between the procession (representing Mary and Joseph) and the hosts (the “innkeepers”). The lyrics recount the Holy Family’s search for lodging. If you are invited to a posada, it’s actually quite an honour. Try to learn your part and don’t be shy about singing along—even if you’re a little off-key.

Once the procession wraps up, the music usually shifts to lively Christmas carols and regional favorites, keeping the energy high well into the night.

Why Las Posadas Are So Special

At its heart, a posada is about more than just the food, music, or festivities. It’s a celebration of community, a time to come together with loved ones, and a chance to reflect on the values of faith, perseverance, and hospitality. Whether you’re participating in a traditional procession or dancing at a holiday office party, the spirit of Las Posadas shines through in the shared joy and connection it brings.

So, if you’re lucky enough to find yourself invited to particpate in a posada this holiday season, embrace the experience. Sing your part, take a swing at the piñata, and savor the tamales and ponche. It’s a celebration unlike any other—and a true taste of Mexico’s holiday magic.

If you enjoyed this article, you may also want to read:

Feliz Navidad! Christmas Traditions in Mexico

What is Día de Candelaria and How is it Celebrated in Mexico?

The Strange History of the Poinsettia Plant