 |
 |
||
 |
|
||
|
Las Posadas (The Inns) is an annual Mexican tradition that commemorates the struggles of Joseph and Mary in their attempt to find lodging for the imminent birth of their child. The nine days of Las Posadas symbolize the nine months that the Virgin Mary carried the Baby Jesus, who was conceived of the Holy Spirit. Las Posadas lasts from December 16-24, leading up to Christmas day.
Each evening of Las Posadas, invited and even uninvited guests arrive at their host's house, playing the parts of the freezing Mary and Joseph. Standing outside with lighted candles, they plead their case with the verses of Las Posadas (click to listen as you read the lyrics), translated as:
In the name of Heaven I ask you for lodging, Because She cannot walk, My beloved wife.
The group inside sings in return:
This is no inn, Keep on going, I won't open the door, In case you are a truant.
Back and forth the singing goes, until the verses lead the hosts to realize just who it is that is pleading outside their home. Then, of course, they open their doors to the visitors, and sing another verse:
Enter, Holy Pilgrims, Accept this dwelling; Not only of this humble house, But of my heart.
The festivities continue inside the house - piñatas are broken, villancicos (Christmas carols) are sung. Traditional foods, such as buñuelos (fried, sugar-coated pastries), tamales and ponche (fruit punch) are consumed as family and friends celebrate the season. |
 |
Las Posadas Menu
MAIN LAS POSADAS PAGE
|
|
|
CreOp Muse PO Box 3215 Austin TX 78764 512.448.3485
|
|||
