Christmas in Cancun: Experience Las Posadas

Ancient Roots of the Las Posadas Christmas Celebration

The Las Posadas Christmas celebration has roots that date back to ancient Aztec traditions. The Aztecs honored Tonantzin Guadalupe, the mother of gods, and celebrated the birth of Huitzilopochtli, their sun god, during the winter solstice on December 12. They believed that the god Quetzalcoatl would visit Earth during the solstice, leading to rituals, sacrifices, and offerings to honor his presence.

Spanish Influence on Las Posadas: A Christmas Celebration in Mexico

When the Spanish settlers arrived, they merged their Christmas traditions with local customs, shaping the Las Posadas Christmas celebration. Friar Diego de Soria, head of the San Agustin Convent, created a holiday that combined the Aztec solstice with the Catholic Christmas pageant. This celebration told the story of Jesus’ birth and honored native traditions with fireworks, carols, and piñatas.

Nine Days of Las Posadas: A Key Part of Christmas in Cancun

Las Posadas begins on December 16 and continues for nine days, each representing a month of Mary’s pregnancy. The term "Las Posadas" translates to "accommodations," symbolizing the search for shelter in Bethlehem. In 1586, Friar Diego de Soria received approval from the Vatican to hold nine masses before Christmas. Pope Sixtus V allowed this, making the Las Posadas Christmas celebration a lasting tradition throughout Mexico.

Friar Diego de Soria was a Spanish missionary and the head of the San Agustin Convent in Mexico during the late 16th century. He played a crucial role in creating the Las Posadas celebration, blending indigenous Aztec traditions with Catholic Christmas customs. His intent was to use the celebration as a means to share the story of Jesus' birth and encourage the conversion of the native population to Catholicism while respecting their existing cultural practices.

In 1586, Friar Diego de Soria sought and received permission from the Vatican to hold nine special masses before Christmas. Pope Sixtus V approved this request, allowing these masses to be celebrated across Mexico. To honor Friar Diego de Soria’s influence, the town of Acolman erected a statue of him breaking a piñata, recognizing his role in establishing one of Mexico’s most beloved Christmas traditions.

Reenactments and Festivities During the Las Posadas Christmas Celebration

In Cancun, the Las Posadas Christmas celebration brings together locals and visitors to experience this lively tradition. Families reenact Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem, with children dressed as Mary and Joseph riding a donkey through neighborhoods. They stop at various homes, singing songs and requesting shelter, recreating the Nativity story. Residents respond with songs until an “inn” accepts them, welcoming the procession.

The final stop, often a home or church, becomes the focal point of the celebration. Participants gather around a Nativity scene, pray the Rosary, and sing traditional Christmas carols. The festivities continue with children breaking star-shaped piñatas filled with treats, followed by a festive dinner. The Las Posadas Christmas celebration honors the spiritual side of Christmas while creating a joyful and communal atmosphere.

Las Posadas in the United States: Celebrating the Mexican Christmas Tradition

The Las Posadas Christmas celebration has also found a place in the United States, especially in cities with strong Mexican heritage. In San Antonio, Texas, a large procession takes place along the San Antonio River Walk, a tradition since 1966. The final stop of this procession is the Cathedral of San Fernando, where the celebrations culminate in song and prayer.

Celebrate Las Posadas Christmas in Cancun This Holiday Season

If you’re spending Christmas in Cancun, experiencing the Las Posadas Christmas celebration will connect you with local culture. This vibrant event combines history, tradition, and festive spirit, making your holiday in Cancun truly memorable. The celebration invites everyone to join in the joy of the season, blending ancient customs with the universal story of Christmas.