Las tradiciones mexicanas de la Navidad 
Christmas Traditions of Mexico

Objectives of the Lesson

  • Become familiar with the story of the Virgin of Guadalupe.
  • Understand historical traditions of Christmas celebrations in Mexico.
  • Learn about the history of the piñata.

La Virgen de Guadalupe

Festivities celebrated in Mexico during the month of December usually begin with the day dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe. December 12 is the day that is celebrated in honor of the Virgin of Guadalupe, the patron saint of Mexico. Read about her appearance before Juan Diego.  

Virgin of Guadalupe

  1. Describe the appearance of the Virgin before Juan Diego. Include the year and information about what the Virgin wanted of Juan Diego.  What sign did she give to Juan Diego as proof?

Mexican Christmas Traditions

Las Posadas
Next, read about other Mexican traditions celebrated in December.  After reading about them, return to this page to answer the questions about each section.  (The information for questions 2-11 is found on the posadas page.)

TOPIC: LAS POSADAS

  1. When do the Posadas begin?  For how many days do they last?
  2. Describe the processions that take place.

TOPIC: EL NACIMIENTO

Often a Christmas tree will be included in the decorating.  But the Nacimiento is more traditional and is usually found in most homes.

  1. What does the typical nacimiento consist of and where is it found?

TOPIC: LA NOCHEBUENA

  1. When is the Misa de Gallo celebrated?
  2. List some of the food that might be eaten after the Misa de Gallo.
  3. To whom would a child in Mexico write a "wish list" for gifts?

TOPIC: LA FLOR DE NOCHE BUENA

  1. What are Cuitlaxochitl, Catarina, Flor de Pastor and Flor de Noche Buena?  Describe them.

TOPIC: LOS SANTOS INOCENTES

  1. What day is similar to April Fools Day?  What is the history behind the celebration?

TOPIC: LOS REYES MAGOS

  1. What is celebrated on January 6?  What is it called and why is it celebrated?
  2. What is the traditional bread served on this date?  Do we have a similar bread in the United States?  Rosca de reyes

Story of the Piñata
Piñatas are included in practically all Mexican celebrations, including la Navidad and las Posadas.  Read a brief history of the piñata:  La piñata
  1.   What is the origin of the piñata and how was it used by Mexicans?

 

Related Links

 

 

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Created and maintained by N Barclay     01/27/2010