A Step-by-Step Guide to a Beloved Holiday Tradition
Hosting a Posada party is a beautiful way to take part in one of Mexico’s most cherished holiday traditions. Whether you’re a longtime resident of San Miguel de Allende or new to the custom, this guide will help you plan a celebration that honors its cultural and spiritual roots while offering guests a warm and festive experience.
What Is Las Posadas?
Las Posadas (Spanish for “The Inns”) is a nine-night celebration held from December 16 to December 24, commemorating Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem in search of shelter. It’s both a religious and cultural tradition, marked by nightly processions, music, food, and community gatherings.
Participants walk through neighborhoods by candlelight, singing traditional verses and stopping at various homes. In a symbolic reenactment, the group asks for lodging while the hosts respond—until the final home opens its doors and the party begins.
In San Miguel de Allende, these processions come to life against a backdrop of colonial architecture and vibrant community spirit. Children often dress as Mary and Joseph, and adults carry lanterns or star-shaped piñatas through the cobblestone streets.
A Personal Note
When I lived in Colonia San Antonio, a thoughtful friend shared the date of our neighborhood posada—information that can be surprisingly difficult to find. If you’re hoping to join or host one, it’s best to ask locals, check with your hotel concierge, or consult neighborhood Facebook groups and community bulletin boards to learn your colonia’s specific date.
Step-by-Step Guide to Hosting a Posada
Let your neighbors know you’d like to participate in the Posada for your neighborhood. Coordination is key, especially if you’re part of a shared procession route.
Visit the Holiday Markets
Shop at the seasonal markets near Plaza Cívica or Mercado Ignacio Ramírez for handcrafted ornaments, candles, nativity figures, and traditional piñatas. These details will add color and cultural richness to your celebration.
Prepare Treat Bags
Purchase small gift bags and fill them with traditional sweets, peanuts, fruit, or toys. Plan for around 30 to 50 bags, depending on your expected turnout. Assembling them can be a fun pre-party activity for your guests.
Plan a Piñata for Children
If your guests include little ones, be sure to include a seven-pointed star piñata, which symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. Fill it with candy and small prizes, and save it for the end of the evening as the grand finale.
Plan the Menu
A Posada feast often includes:
Tamales
Pozole
Buñuelos
Ponche Navideño (warm fruit punch)
Atole or Champurrado (traditional hot drinks)
Work with a local caterer or restaurant for ease, or consider a potluck-style gathering for a more communal feel.
Create a Moment of Reflection
Begin the meal with a short prayer, seasonal reading, or expression of gratitude—a meaningful way to honor the spiritual aspect of the holiday and set the tone for the celebration.
Print Song Sheets
Hand out printed lyrics to the traditional song “Pidiendo Posada” to encourage guest participation during the call-and-response at the door. It’s a small detail that makes a big impact.
Book Live Music
If your budget allows, hire mariachis or local musicians to play Christmas songs as guests arrive and during the celebration. Live music adds an unforgettable festive atmosphere.
Invite Close Friends and Capture the Moment
Invite your circle of friends, neighbors, and family to join you. If you’re hosting a large event, consider hiring a photographer to document the evening’s special moments.
Send Guests Home with a Token
Offer your guests a small memento—such as a candle, a printout of the Posada song, or a sweet treat bag—to commemorate the occasion and thank them for being part of your celebration.
Notify Your Neighbors
Let your neighbors know you’d like to participate in the Posada for your neighborhood. Coordination is key, especially if you’re part of a shared procession route.
Visit the Holiday Markets
Shop at the seasonal markets near Plaza Cívica or Mercado Ignacio Ramírez for handcrafted ornaments, candles, nativity figures, and traditional piñatas. These details will add color and cultural richness to your celebration.
Prepare Treat Bags
Purchase small gift bags and fill them with traditional sweets, peanuts, fruit, or toys. Plan for around 30 to 50 bags, depending on your expected turnout. Assembling them can be a fun pre-party activity for your guests.
Plan The Menu
If your guests include little ones, be sure to include a seven-pointed star piñata, which symbolizes the triumph of good over evil. Fill it with candy and small prizes, and save it for the end of the evening as the grand finale.
A Posada feast often includes:
Tamales
Pozole
Buñuelos
Ponche Navideño (warm fruit punch)
Atole or Champurrado (traditional hot drinks)
Work with a local caterer or restaurant for ease, or consider a potluck-style gathering for a more communal feel.
Create a Moment of Reflection
Begin the meal with a short prayer, seasonal reading, or expression of gratitude—a meaningful way to honor the spiritual aspect of the holiday and set the tone for the celebration.
Print Song Sheets
Hand out printed lyrics to the traditional song “Pidiendo Posada” to encourage guest participation during the call-and-response at the door. It’s a small detail that makes a big impact.
Book Live Music
If your budget allows, hire mariachis or local musicians to play Christmas songs as guests arrive and during the celebration. Live music adds an unforgettable festive atmosphere.
Invite Close Friends and Capture the Moment
Invite your circle of friends, neighbors, and family to join you. If you’re hosting a large event, consider hiring a photographer to document the evening’s special moments.
Send Guests Home with a Token
Offer your guests a small memento—such as a candle, a printout of the Posada song, or a sweet treat bag—to commemorate the occasion and thank them for being part of your celebration.
A Tradition of Heart and Hospitality
In San Miguel de Allende, Las Posadas are more than just a holiday tradition—they’re a heartfelt reflection of the city’s enduring sense of community, creativity, and cultural richness. Whether you’re here for the season or dreaming of making this magical place your home, Las Posadas offer a glimpse into the essence of life here: warmth, beauty, and belonging.
