Christmas in Lake Chapala, Mexico  

As visitors, Christmas in Lake Chapala, Mexico is an important time to learn the centuries old traditions and the way the Mexican culture celebrates this special Xmas holiday. Christmas in the village of Ajijic brings special meaning to ‘Feliz Navidad’ as Gringos discover how to celebrate this holiday as a unique Mexican vacation experience.

There is great adventure to look forward to during your Christmas vacation in Mexico.  You could be invited to celebrate this adored holiday with a Mexican family.  It is an honor to be part of the festivities and enjoy the warmth and joy of a traditional Christmas holiday in the home of a Mexican family.

Beginning December 16th "La Posadas," is the activity leading up to Christmas Eve in Ajijic.  It is the most delightful and unique Mexican tradition, commemorating the events in the journey of Mary and Joseph from Nazareth to Bethlehem.

At dark, every night of the "Posada", a procession begins somewhere in the neighborhoods of the Lake Chapala communities.  The children carry a small pine-decorated platform with replicas of Joseph and Mary riding a burro.  Other’s in the procession carry lighted long slender candles. Posada in Spanish means Inn and as you are aware Joseph and Mary were looking for some place to stay prior to the birth of Jesus.

As a traveler in this part of Mexico, you will want to hear them sing the "Litany of the Virgin" as they reach the door of the house assigned to the first "Posada."  They chant an old traditional song waiting for the master of the house to come to the door.  They then ask for lodging for Mary.

As you watch the event unfold, those within the home pretend to threaten the procession with beatings unless they move on.  But, the “La Posadas” again beg for admittance.  Now as the drama continues the master of the home realizes who his guests are, he enthusiastically opens the doors wide and welcomes them to his home.   They gather around the manger scene or "Nacimiento" and sing songs of welcome, Ave Marias and a prayer.

Soon, you will observe it is time for the "Pinata," refreshments and dancing. A "Piñata" is a pottery (or paper) container, beautifully decorated and filled with candy and toys. It is can be hung from the ceiling or a tree.  Every child in the Ajijic area knows that a piñata means the potential for goodies. You will see each child take a turn at being blindfolded, turned around and told to hit and break the Pinata with a stick.

Starting with the smallest child, one by one they try to break the colorful pinata, while the kids are hitting it, the rest of the group sings:

Dale, dale, dale,
Hit it, hit it, hit it (or "go, go, go")

no pierdas el tino;
Don't lose your aim
 
Porque si lo pierdes
Because if you lose it (your aim)

pierdes el camino.
You will lose the path.

Ya le diste una,
You've already hit it once

ya le diste dos;
You've already hit it twice

Ya le diste tres,
You've already hit it three times

y tu tiempo se acabó.
And your time is over.

Usually there are many energetic attempts made before the container is actually broken.  Often Pinatas are hung for high lines crossing the streets of Ajijic for all to see this spectacle of celebrating the Christmas season. When the Pinata is finally broken, there is a burst of goodies and children scramble to get their prize.

On Christmas Eve in Mexico, another verse is added to the Ave Marias. This verse tells the Virgin Mary that the desired night has come. Often small children are dressed as shepherds and stand around the nativity scene.  Other members of the procession kneel and sing a litany, after which the Christ Child is lulled to sleep with the cradle song, "El Rorro" (Babe in Arms).

When the Ajijic church bells toll midnight the birth of Christ is announced.   Fireworks, more ringing bells and blowing whistles makes sure all hear the announcement.   Worshipers fill the main Ajijic church to attend the famous "Misa de Gallo" or "Mass of the Rooster."

In the Lake Chapala area, following Mass, families return home for a dinner of traditional Mexican foods. The types of dishes will vary within the different regions.  However, common traditions everywhere are the "tamales," rice, rellenos, "atole" (a sweet traditional drink) and "menudo," which is said to be more sobering than strong coffee.

Join us to enjoy a traditional Christmas in Mexico as you experience the joy of the Ajijic Mexican community celebrating this important holiday.

Book your Lake Chapala vacation stay at Casa Preciosa the best Lodging Ajijic has to offer.

Feliz Navidad!