Every December, Mexicans and other countries in Latin America celebrate a beloved tradition known as posadas. While most people relate it to breaking piñatas, lights, drinking fruit punch, having delicious foods such as tostadas or buñuelos, and getting together to drink, this festivity actually has a profound meaning that goes way back to the 16th century.

The celebration takes place in the nine days leading up to Christmas Eve, from December 16th to 24th. The word "posada" is Spanish for "inn" or "lodging," and the catholic tradition reenacts Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem in search of a place to stay.

They arose during the evangelization of the mesoamerican of the viceroyalty empire of New Spain in the conquest of America and the evangelization of the people as a combination of cultures; now they are part of the identity of the entire country.  

Part of origin in the so-called 'aguinaldo' masses ― named like that because they were offered as a gift or 'Christmas bonus' to the guests of the parties. During that time, the Mexica people celebrated festivals in honor of Huitzilopochtli, the god of war.

The Posadas are not only a religious tradition but also a cultural and social event that brings communities together. During the celebration, it is common to sing, drink fruit punch, eat buñuelos, have tamales, light candles, break star shaped piñatas with candy inside and say prayers.

The participants are usually divided in two groups, carrying candles and images of the Holy Family, going from house to house and asking for shelter by singing a traditional song known as the "Posada." The song includes a dialogue between the pilgrims seeking shelter and the residents denying them, until the final house welcomes them in.