Dec 2008 Puerto Vallarta

Las Posadas

A Posada in Spanish means lodging or shelter. In Mexico Las Pasada is an old and colorful tradition, celebrated every evening from Dec. 16 to Dec 24. This is a commemoration of Mary and Joseph's search for shelter. This is sort of a play going from house to house. Some person is chosen to play the part of Mary and Joseph and they along with a group following them travel to 3 houses. There is a song sung asking for lodging and the people in the house sing back that No there is no room, they go on to the second house and ask for lodging and told to keep going at the 3rd house they are welcomed and the party begins.

My block had it's Posada last night and what a great fiesta it was. First I was so very flattered to have been included in their party. They decided I had to come back next year as I danced all night with them and we laughed and ate the best food I've ever eaten. Tamales, pazole, tacos, paella, and lots of tequila. The old and young danced, sang, and tried to be the one to break the Pinatas. The Mexicans do know how to party.

The best part was later in the night when the adults tried to break the Pinata, lots of silliness and good fun.

Pinatas in the neighborhood where my school is located are made by the local ladies. My street is so colorful now that I will miss all the pinatas hanging from the stores. Each lady does a different style but all are made the old traditional style with a bisque ceramic jar inside and crepe paper wrapped in the shape of a star, representing the star that guided the 3 Wise men to baby Jesus.

No matter what the fiesta is today all fiestas originated from the Catholic religion.