December in Mexico is a month full of celebrations, traditions and events that reflect the cultural richness and festive spirit of the country. From posadas to Christmas, including New Year's Eve festivities, this month is one of the most anticipated times of the year. Below is a detailed calendar for December 2025, highlighting the main dates and events of interest in the country.
December 1: Beginning of the Christmas month
The first day of December officially marks the beginning of Christmas decorations and preparations in many parts of Mexico. Streets, squares and homes begin to fill with lights, nativity scenes and decorated pine trees. On this day, the first Christmas markets are also usually organized, where crafts, gifts and traditional food are sold.
December 3: International Day of Persons with Disabilities
Although it is a global commemoration, in Mexico various events and activities are held to raise awareness about the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities. Educational institutions, governments and civil organizations usually organize forums, workshops and campaigns around this date.
December 8: Feast of the Immaculate Conception
This religious celebration is especially important in Catholic communities in Mexico. In many localities, processions, masses and offerings are held in honor of the Virgin Mary. It is common to find altars decorated with flowers and candles, as well as cultural events such as traditional dances and music.
December 12: Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe
December 12 is one of the most important dates in the religious calendar in Mexico. Millions of pilgrims from all over the country and abroad head to the Basilica of Guadalupe in Mexico City to pay homage to the "Morenita del Tepeyac." This day is celebrated with special masses, traditional dances such as the "Danza de los Matachines" and fireworks.
December 16-24: The Posadas
Posadas are a Christmas tradition that symbolizes the journey of Joseph and Mary looking for a place to stay before the birth of Jesus. During these dates, families and communities organize to hold processions, songs, and performances. At the end of each posada, piñatas filled with fruit, candy, and toys are broken, and foods such as tamales, punch, and atole are shared.
December 21: Beginning of winter
The winter solstice marks the official start of the season in the northern hemisphere. In Mexico, some indigenous communities hold special ceremonies to honor the change of season, thanking nature for the harvest and asking for prosperity for the coming year.
December 24: Christmas Eve
Christmas Eve is one of the most important celebrations of the year. Mexican families gather to share a special dinner that includes dishes such as turkey, cod, romeritos, apple salad and tamales. It is also common to attend the "Misa de Gallo" (Rooster Mass), which is celebrated at midnight to commemorate the birth of Jesus.
December 25th: Christmas
Christmas Day is a day dedicated to family time and rest. Although in Mexico most of the festivities take place on Christmas Eve, December 25 is also a day to exchange gifts and enjoy a festive atmosphere. In some regions, it is common to hold pastorelas, which are theatrical representations of the birth of Jesus and the struggle between good and evil.
December 28: Day of the Holy Innocents
This day has a double meaning in Mexico. On the one hand, it is a religious commemoration that remembers the massacre of children ordered by King Herod according to the Bible. On the other hand, it is also a date for making jokes, similar to "April Fools' Day" in other countries. It is common to see fake news in the media and to play small pranks on friends and family.
December 31: New Year's Eve
The last day of the year is celebrated with parties, dinners and rituals to attract good luck in the coming year. Among the most popular traditions are eating 12 grapes at midnight, wearing colored underwear (red for love, yellow for money), sweeping the house to ward off bad energy and going out with a suitcase to attract travel. The country's main cities usually organize fireworks shows and concerts.
Other notable events and traditions
Christmas markets
Throughout the month of December, Christmas markets become meeting points for buying crafts, decorations, traditional food and gifts. Some of the most famous ones are in Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende, Oaxaca and Guadalajara.
Pastorelas
Pastorelas are theatrical performances that tell the story of the shepherds who go to worship the baby Jesus. These works mix religious elements with humor and satire, being a deeply rooted tradition in communities and schools.
Decorations and nativity scenes
Nativity scenes are a Mexican tradition that ranges from small representations in homes to monumental installations in public squares. These nativity scenes include figures of baby Jesus, Mary, Joseph, the Three Wise Men, shepherds and animals, decorated with moss, lights and papel picado.
Traditional music and dances
During December, traditional music and dance are present in many celebrations. Christmas carols, mariachis and folkloric dance groups form part of the festive atmosphere throughout the country.
December 2025 in Mexico promises to be a month full of joy, traditions, and celebrations. It is a time to share with family, reflect on the year that is ending, and welcome the new cycle with hope and enthusiasm. Whether participating in a posada, admiring a nativity scene, or enjoying a Christmas dinner, this month offers unforgettable experiences for locals and visitors alike.