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Nature in her beauteous best, tempting beaches, sunshine and amiable people are what makes Mexico one of the most desired vacation destinations. If you are planning a Christmas vacation in Mexico, you are in for a gala time. Christmas festivities in Mexico begin on the December 16 th itself and are extended well after the Christmas. You will have a rollicking time from the moment you set your foot in Mexico.
Christmas is an annual celebration held all over the world with much enthusiasm and high spirit and Mexico is not an exception. Like most places, Christmas in Mexico is observed on December 25. However, because of strong influences of the native Roman Catholicism, the Christmas celebrations in Mexico differ vastly from other parts of the world.
Christmas festivities in this country start with La Guadalupana or Virgin of Guadalupe December 12 and continue through Epiphany January 6.
Christmas Celebrations in Mexico
The Three Wise Men form a key part of the Christmas celebrations in this country. They are the gift givers, who bring presents for baby Jesus as well as all Mexican kids at Epiphany. In order to get gifts, kids put letters in their shoes for them. Nativity scene or El Nacimiento is another important part of the celebration. Every home builds a Nativity scene and places a small image of baby Jesus in the nacimientos, recreating the birth scene of Lord Jesus. Grand processions called las posadas are also organized.
On Christmas Eve, small kids dress up like shepherds and stand near the nativity scene. The other members, on the other hand, sing a litany to the baby Jesus putting him to sleep. Bells, fireworks and whistles signify the birth of Christ Child. After this, families gather at Midnight Mass and then, have their Christmas dinner.
Christmas Decorations in Mexico
Nativity scene is the focal point of Mexican Christmas decorations. Bright colored lights and bulbs are extensively used. People bring piñatas or paper mache dolls and hang them from the room ceiling. These dolls are stuffed with coins and candy. Further, in Mexico, families go for small artificial Christmas tree only as it’s not an integral part of the celebration. However, tree branches or shrubs can be seen in most home decorations.
Christmas Recipes in Mexico
After midnight mass, a rich traditional style Christmas dinner is hosted at homes. The menu is different in every region. But, some common food and drink items include menudo, atole, rice, tamales and rellenos. Atole is a traditional drink having sweet flavor.
Christmas Church Services in Mexico
Like other countries, Mexico also holds Midnight mass. Thousands of people gather at the church for Misa de Gallo or Mass of the Rooster. According to legends, the only time when a rooster crowed at midnight was on Jesus’ birth and hence, the mass is so called.
Be part of the celebrations and gathering in a large scale on the event of “Las Posadas†and attend the “Pastorelas†or plays and shop for some cool Christmas crafts in between. On “Reyes Magosâ€, the Magi visit the children and leave gifts for them. Do include Cancun, Cozumel, Isle de Mujeres, Mexico City, and Acapulco in your itinerary of Christmas vacation in Mexico. They comprise of the major vacation spots in Mexico. The enchanting sea beaches are perhaps the biggest attraction for the tourists. The resorts of Cabo San Lucas offer a mix of crystal clear, blue water, mind blowing scenic beauty. Cancun won't disappoint the visitors either. This place is a brilliant concoction of natural beauty, man-made attractions and archeological riches waiting to be explored. A stunning natural beauty coupled with a serene and placid ambience is what makes Cozumel the most sought after tourist destination.
Looking forward to an activity-packed Christmas vacation in Mexico? Manzanillo should be your choice. Sea fishing, scuba diving, parasailing and a host of other water sports would definitely keep you busy. Mazaltan has much to offer to an outdoor enthusiast along with its beautiful golf courses and tennis courts. Wrap up your busy day in one of the famous night clubs in Maziltan. If you want to get a taste of the quintessential Mexican culture, Puerto Vallarta is the place. Lush vegetation, palm-lined beaches and luxuriant resorts would captivate the soul of every nature lover. A perfect place to unwind, the quaint town of Puerto Vallarta is all set to make your Christmas vacation an unforgettable experience.
Travour provides you with a brief overview of Christmas vacation in Mexico and around the world.
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