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The Mexican tradition of “posada” goes back 400 years. “Posada,” meaning “inn” or “lodging” in Spanish, commemorates the nine months of Mary’s pregnancy.
For nine consecutive nights, a group representing the Holy Family looking for the inn stands outside a series of houses, singing and asking for lodging. They are refused until they reach the designated “posada.” Once inside, the travelers eat, sing and recite a traditional “novena” or special prayer.
On the ninth night, Christmas Eve, the hosting house welcomes in all who knock, and a grand party is held culminating in midnight Mass, food and music. ¡Feliz navidad!
– Rosalind Hall, Gambel Communications