This post was last updated August 21, 2023.

Las Posadas is a religious reenactment of the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem. Translating from the word “inns,” “posadas” is used to describe the trip made by Mary and Joseph as they traveled from inn to inn looking for a room before Jesus Christ was eventually born in a manger. The reenactments are held between December 16th and 24th.

These posadas celebrations feature a cornucopia of traditional foods, festive drinks, sweets, music, gifts, and piñatas shaped like the star of Bethlehem. Each night, the revelers stop at one of nine pre-selected houses and venues to share in the merriment. The culminating procession on Christmas Eve usually ends at a church for the celebration of midnight mass.

Here are six Las Posadas celebrations you need to check out this Christmas season!

San Antonio

A city rich in Hispanic culture, San Antonio is one of the best places to be for Las Posadas celebrations. You’ll find these activities scattered across the city, including special events at the famous Riverwalk and more. You won’t want to miss Las Posadas reenactments at the San Fernando Cathedral, which travels to the Spanish Governor’s Mansion and other stops along the way. Other stops may include the Arneson Theater, Museo Alameda, and other sites important in San Antonio’s Hispanic history.

The Philippines

Catholics from the Philippines have their own distinct way of recognizing the Posadas. Simbang Gabi translates to “night Mass” in Tagalog. This series of nine Masses traditionally happen in the hours before dawn between December 16th and 24th. The custom includes street vendors selling authentic Filipino treats after the Mass. Attendees carry authentic Christmas lanterns known as parols along the processional route. In the Philippines, the procession is sung in a Filipino language, putting a twist on the historic Christmas tradition.

Mexico

Of course, you can’t talk about Las Posadas without talking about Mexico. After all, Mexico is known for serving lucky guests some delicious tamales, pozole, and much, much more during Las Posadas.  This is also a holiday of important religious significant to Mexico and is a time of great celebration. If you’re lucky enough to visit during this time, make sure to take lots of pictures, have some fun, and learn as much as you can. Enjoy your time connecting to the people, music, and culture.

Nicaragua

In the country of Nicaragua, the tradition of Las Posadas eventually evolved into what is known as La Griteria. This holiday is celebrated by Nicaraguans on December 7th, the eve of the Day of the Immaculate Conception of Mary. During La Griteria celebrations, families gather at homes decorated with altars featuring blue and white backdrops that represent the colors of the sky. The altars typically include a statue of the Virgin Mary, candles, and palm fronds. Homes are usually open for anyone to come in and sing and celebrate at the altar.

Colombia

Colombians celebrate Las Posadas with the Novenas de Aguinaldos celebration. During this time, families gather with friends and neighbors to pray together. There is a different prayer for each day of the celebration, praying to St. Joseph, the Virgin Mary, and the divine Child. The prayers end with carols that honor the ancient religious rituals of this commemoration. As you travel to different homes to pray, it’s tradition to bring food offerings. Popular options include tamales, fritters, custard, and rice pudding.

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Los Angeles

Olvera Street is the site for Las Posadas in Los Angeles. Since its founding in 1930, Olvera Street has been the hub for Las Posadas. Over the nine nights of this festival, you’ll find processions of strolling musicians, authentic Hispanic food offerings, traditional Christmas songs performed in Spanish, a special piñata breaking each night in the plaza, and more. The event culminates on Christmas Eve with a live play about Mary and Joseph to commemorate the birth of Jesus.