December 2023 Calendar - Mexico

The month of December is a special time in Mexico, where celebrations and traditions come alive with joy and fervor. From religious holidays to unique cultural traditions, this month is a time of color and magic across the country. truly special.

Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe (December 12)

The Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe is one of the most important religious celebrations in Mexico. Thousands of devotees make a pilgrimage to the Basilica of Guadalupe in Mexico City to pay homage to the patron saint of Mexico. The streets are filled with color, music and traditional dances in honor of the Virgin Morena.

Las Posadas (December 16 to 24)

Las Posadas is a deeply rooted Mexican tradition that is celebrated from December 16 to 24, just before Christmas. This festivity is one of the most beloved and popular in Mexico and has its roots in the Catholic religion, with a mixture of indigenous and Spanish influences.

The term "posada" comes from Spanish and means "lodging" or " posada ". Tradition commemorates the journey of Mary and Joseph from Nazareth to Bethlehem , where they sought refuge before the birth of Jesus. During these nine nights, the pilgrimage of the Holy Family and their search for a place to stay are recreated.

Las Posadas are celebrated with daily processions that usually take place at sunset. The procession is headed by a group of people representing Mary and Joseph, who carry images of the Virgin Mary and the Child Jesus, placed on a small decorated altar. Pilgrims walk through the streets of the neighborhood, knocking on doors and singing traditional Christmas carols called " canticos " or " aguinaldos ".

In each house they visit, the pilgrims request a lodging, singing a series of verses in which they ask for refuge and where the owners of the house respond by denying lodging. This interaction is repeated in various houses, until they are finally allowed in and offered a place to stay. Once the pilgrims are admitted, a celebration takes place with music, dances, piñatas, and delicious typical dishes of the season, such as tamales, punch, and fritters.

The highlight of Las Posadas is Christmas Eve, December 24. On this last night, the procession reaches the final destination, which is usually a church or a place of worship, where the birth of Jesus in a manger is represented. The Christmas Eve mass is a special and emotional event, with a large attendance of parishioners.

Las Posadas are more than just a religious tradition; they are also an occasion to promote unity and community coexistence. It is a time when families and neighbors come together, strengthening bonds of friendship and solidarity, and sharing the joy and spirit of the Christmas season.

Christmas Eve (December 24)

Christmas Eve is a night filled with joy and family unity in Mexico . Families gather to celebrate Christmas dinner, with traditional dishes such as cod, romeritos and the famous fruit punch. Midnight marks the time when gifts are exchanged and Christmas is welcomed.

Christmas is on the 25th of December)

Christmas Day is a time to attend masses and religious celebrations, as well as to enjoy time with family and friends. Children also eagerly await the arrival of " Santa Claus " or " Father Christmas " to receive gifts.

Day of the Saints Innocents (December 28)

The Day of the Innocent Saints is a festive date in Mexico that is celebrated on December 28. This tradition has its roots in the Biblical story recorded in the Gospel of Matthew, which recounts the episode known as " The Massacre of the Innocents ". According to this account, King Herod, fearing that he would lose his throne to the newborn King of the Jews, ordered the massacre of all children under the age of two in Bethlehem.

At present, this commemoration has acquired a more festive and playful approach, similar to April Fools Day in other countries. It is a day in which humor and fun are promoted through jokes and innocent pranks that are spent among friends, family and co-workers. Although pranks can range from the simplest to the most elaborate, they are always expected to be harmless and elicit laughter and good humor. Some of the more common pranks played on April Fool's Day in Mexico include:

Faking Fake News: In this day and age, it is common for the media, especially newspapers and websites, to publish fake and outlandish news. These news stories are often recognizable by their humorous tone, but some readers may fall for the joke for a moment.

Phone scams: Fake calls are made to fool friends or family. For example, someone can pretend to be a store clerk and report that they have won a prize or have an outstanding debt.

Label switching: Product labels can be changed at home or in stores to confuse shoppers. For example, labeling a soda bottle with the name of another product.

Fake gifts: Giving wrapped gifts, but containing unexpected or funny objects instead of what was expected.

Social Media Hoaxes: In the digital age, many hoaxes are spread across social media, such as fake or manipulated posts to confuse followers.

It is important to keep in mind that although April Fool's Day is a time to have fun and share laughter, it is always necessary to maintain a sense of responsibility and empathy. Jokes should be harmless and respectful towards others, avoiding any physical or emotional harm.

New Year (December 31)

New Year 's Eve in Mexico is celebrated with large parties, fireworks, and rituals to attract good luck. One of the most popular traditions is to eat the twelve grapes at the sound of the twelve strokes of midnight, while making wishes for the new year.

Whether you are in Mexico City, the northern states or the colorful cities of the south, celebrating the month of December in Mexico is an unforgettable experience that will immerse you in the warmth and hospitality of its people. Live and enjoy this charming calendar of festivities and traditions!