Las Posadas, the traditional re-enactment of Mary and Joseph's search for shelter in Bethlehem, typically begin on Dec. 16, and continue through Christmas Eve.
In Mexico, Las Posadas," from a Spanish word for "lodging," typically begin the evening of Dec. 16 and last through Christmas Eve, when families gather for midnight Mass.
The nine evenings represent the nine months of Mary's pregnancy with Jesus.
The celebration has its roots in Mexico's indigenous Aztec culture, and was Christianized by the Spanish more than 400 years ago.
Traditionally, participants get together each evening outside a different home, with children dressed as shepherds, angels, Mary and Joseph, with the guests singing a song seeking shelter, and the hosts singing in reply. Often people carry flowers and candles.
"I'm asking you for lodging, dear man of the house," says a translation of the song on mexconnect.com. "Just for one night for the Queen of Heaven."
Finally recognizing the Holy Family, the hosts allow them in serving food, hot beverages and other treats.
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