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Christmas is one of the most important holidays in Mexico and involves an incredible food scene, several exciting events, Spanish Christmas carols, lots of fireworks, dancing, decorations, and certain traditions from Spanish and other cultures that played a significant role in Mexican history. While Christmas trees and Santa Claus traditions have found a place in the Mexican Christmas festivities, the Spanish culture is strongly observed during their celebrations. This is you can celebrate the Christmas holiday traditionally in Mexico.
Facts About Mexican Christmas Traditions
- The Mexican Christmas holiday lasts about two months, with several festivals, events, and traditions in between, giving travelers a chance to get a glimpse into Spanish culture.
- Christmas in Mexico City is the most spectacular and includes all sorts of holiday-themed decorations in its Historic Downtown.
- There are several Mexican Christmas celebrations beyond the actual Christmas Day.
What To Expect During The Christmas Season In Mexico
The Christmas celebrations in Mexico start on December 12 every year and ends on February 2. In between, there are a good number of winter holidays.
December 12: Dia De La Virgin De Guadalupe
The Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe is one of the most important holidays in Mexico and Latin America. During the holiday, the images and statues of the Virgin of Guadalupe, one of the most significant religious figures, are spread all over the country. This day has been celebrated for many centuries and began when the Virgin appeared to Saint Juan Diego on December 12, 1531, ordering him to build a temple. To confirm to the members of the local clergy that the Virgin appeared to him, Juan showed them a piece of fabric from her. One of the bishops later saw the Virgin of Guadalupe's image appearing on the piece of fabric Juan brought to them and ordered the construction of a church in the place she chose, Tepeyac Hill. Today, the Guadalupe Shrine still exists and is one of Mexico's most stunning churches and a tourist attraction.
Las Posadas: December 16-24
Posadas are holiday gatherings taking place every night from December 16 to 24, Christmas Eve Day. Posadas represent a part of the story of Mary and Joseph looking for a place to stay in Bethlehem. Las Posadas is one of the oldest Christmas traditions in Mexico and are carried everywhere in the country. The celebrations involve pastorelas, humorous performances usually done by kids, and retelling Bible stories. There are specific verses and songs sung during the Posadas, which are like the Christmas Carols in every other part of the world.
The performers walk from one door to another as they sing and recite the verses, something that represents Joseph’s and Mary’s journey looking for a place to have Nino (Baby) Jesus. Posada means ‘lodging’ or ‘inn.’
December 24: Noche Buena
After doing the posadas, Mexicans attend Midnight Masses in the nearest Catholic church, then dine together. Some people, however, skip the late-night masses and eat the Christmas Meal before Midnight, on December 24, something practiced by many Mexicans. It is called Christmas Eve in every other part of the world and Noche Buena or ‘Good Night’ in Mexico.
Gifts are shared among families and friends, but some don't allow kids to open the presents until January 6, Three Kings Day.
Dishes served on this day vary from one family to another, but traditional Mexican favorites, like tamales, ponche (Christmas Punch), hojarascas (Mexican Christmas cookies), are common.
December 25: Christmas Day
Christmas Day, December 25, is the actual holiday in the Mexican culture, and almost no business operates on that day, as it's a time to spend with friends and families.
In fact, some people take a whole week off for the long, beautiful festive season and head to some of the prettiest beaches in Mexico. The best beaches are found in world-famous destinations, including Puerto Vallarta, Cancun, and Cabo San Lucas.
January 1: New Year's Day
New Year is not celebrated as Christmas. Instead, it involves peaceful gatherings with families and friends at home. But since many people and students are on a break from work and school, they head to the beach towns to celebrate.
January 6: El Dia De Los Reyes Magos
Also referred to as Dia de Los Santos Reyes or Epifania (Epiphany), this is one of the most significant Catholic holidays in Mexico, symbolizing the arrival of the Three Wise Men who came to Bethlehem to Worship Baby Jesus.
An important tradition observed during this holiday is that it is the time when children are allowed to open their Christmas gifts.
February 2: Dia De La Candelaria
Dia De La Candeleria is the last holiday in the Christmas Season, and it’s a crucial event for Mexican Catholics. The non-religious Mexicans usually join their friends and families during meal times.
Where To Celebrate Christmas In Mexico
If looking forward to a perfect Christmas holiday celebration in Mexico, places are guaranteeing unforgettable experiences. While special traditions are observed throughout the country, the actual celebrations may vary from one place to another. Here are the top places to explore during Christmas:
Mexico City
Mexico City is the place to experience Mexico's Christmas season at its most impressive. It's not just about spending time with families and friends. There are plenty of things to do in the season for vacationers to enjoy. Zocalo is one of the best places to be in Mexico City, featuring an ice-skating rink, a huge tree that offers an incredible Christmas feel, and lots of Christmas decorations on the buildings around the square.
Puerto Vallarta
No Christmas celebration in Mexico is complete without a visit to Puerto Vallarta. Located in Jalisco, this charming town boasts about 40 miles of coastline on the Bay of Banderas along the Pacific Ocean. Puerto Vallarta is known to charm vacationers with its world-class attractions and fun adventures. There are a lot of exciting things to do in Puerto Vallarta during Christmas, including exploring its old buildings and churches, which date back to the century. The town offers plenty of shopping opportunities during the festive season, thanks to several markets selling Christmas-themed items and more. A visit to Puerto Vallarta at Christmas is definitely one of the best things to do in Mexico in winter.
San Miguel De Allende
Located in the central part of Mexico, in Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende is one of the best places to visit during Christmas in Mexico. The city gets lit up with colorful lights along its beautiful streets and buildings. The celebrations involve friends and families coming together to drink, eat cakes, and share Christmas gifts.
Cabo San Lucas
Located in Baja Sur, California, Cabo San Lucas is one of Mexico's most iconic tourist destinations, with a lot to offer. The town is known to be a wonderful paradise, offering miles of beachline with plenty of fun activities suitable for travelers of all interests. During Christmas, the spectacular position of Cabo San Lucas allows for breathtaking views and endless fun activities for an entire family to enjoy. Some of the things to do include whale watching, scuba diving, snorkeling, paddleboarding, boating, surfing, deep-sea fishing, and more. Several fun activities are also arranged in Cabo’s restaurants and hotels throughout the Christmas season.
Chiapas Highlands
Chiapas Highlands is known for its beautiful waterfalls and gorgeous rivers – and it's an incredible place to visit during Christmas. The spectacular highlights boast colonial towns with communities, some with roots in the Mayan culture. These charming towns offer numerous fun activities for Christmas and some of the most impressive holiday-themed decorations. It's a place not to miss when looking to experience a traditional Mexican Christmas celebration.
For the best of winter and Christmas celebrations, plan a visit to Mexico in December and stay until the season is over for an ultimate experience.