In Mexico, Christmas doesn’t just last for one day. It’s at least six weeks of celebrations that begin in mid-December and continue through the start of February. That’s plenty of time to celebrate with your favorite Mexican restaurants, even if you don’t make it into El Tapatio before Christmas.
Mexican Christmas traditions date back long before Christmas trees and twinkling lights, though you’ll see plenty of those today. Before the Spanish missionaries arrived in Mexico in the 16th century, indigenous peoples already celebrated festivals around the winter solstice. Many of those traditions were absorbed into Christian celebrations throughout the Christmas season.
Take your time celebrating Christmas with your favorite restaurants in Merrimack. Here’s a look at some of the traditions of this festive season.
Las Posadas
One of the most iconic traditions, Las Posadas, dates back to 1587. Augustinian friars held nine nightly processions from December 16 through 24 to retell the story of Mary and Joseph seeking shelter. Each night, neighbors reenact the journey with songs, candles, and—of course—food. Fun fact: those call-and-response songs are centuries old and were designed so even people who couldn’t read could participate.
Piñatas
Then there’s the piñata, which most people associate with kids’ parties, but its Christmas origins are deeply symbolic. Early Mexican piñatas traditionally had seven points, representing the seven deadly sins. Breaking the piñata while blindfolded symbolized faith overcoming temptation. And the candy inside? The rewards of virtue. Not bad for something now mostly filled with lollipops.
Las Pastorelas
Another lesser-known tradition is Las Pastorelas, comedic plays about shepherds trying to visit baby Jesus while being hilariously sabotaged by devils. These plays became popular during colonial times and were often used to sneak in political satire, making fun of authority figures under the guise of Christmas entertainment.
Poinsettias
Mexico also gave the world one of its most recognizable Christmas plants: the poinsettia. Known to the Aztecs as cuetlaxóchitl, it was used long before Christmas as a dye and medicine. A 19th-century legend tied the plant to Christmas Eve, and the rest is festive history.
The Full Christmas Season
Christmas celebrations don’t end on December 25. On January 6 (Día de Reyes), families eat Rosca de Reyes, a sweet bread hiding a tiny baby Jesus figurine. If you find it, congratulations. You’re hosting tamales on February 2 (Día de la Candelaria). It’s possibly the longest-running holiday “gotcha” in the world.
Visit El Tapatio & Celebrate Christmas with Merrimack Restaurants
There’s plenty to celebrate this time of year, so take your time and enjoy the season! Bring your friends and family together to celebrate and enjoy delicious, authentic Mexican food. Visit us at 707 Milford Road in Merrimack, open Tuesday through Sunday.