Games and Symbols
What do children break open at Christmas time?
Pinata
How long are the Las Posadas?
9 Days
What do people eat in Spain while ringing in the New Year?
Grapes
Which figures are excluded from the Mexican Nativity scene?
Jesus, who is not placed on the Nativity scene until Christmas Day
What is Christmas Eve Mass called in Mexico?
Misa de Gallo/ Rooster Mass
When do the Las Posadas begin and end? (Specific dates)
December 16th-December 24th
What is champurrado?
a thick, warm, and sweet Mexican beverage made with chocolate, masa, and piloncillo
When do Mexican children receive gifts?
They might get a few on Christmas, but more frequently receive gifts on 3 Kings Day
What is the Poinsettia known as in Spanish?
Flor de Noche Buena
What do people do during the Las Posadas?
They act out the journey of Mary and Joseph as they make their way to Bethlehem. They knock at doors asking for shelter.
What is ponche?
hot fruit punch or apple cider
What is Christmas known as in Mexico?
Navidad
When is 3 Kings Day?
January 6
What is the Nativity called in Spanish?
Nacimiento
What happens when people knock at the last house during Las Posadas and are told there is no room but they can stay in the stable?
They are invited in for a celebration of food, drinks, song, and breaking of the pinata.
Why do Mexican children receive gifts primarily on 3 Kings Day?
Because Baby Jesus received gifts from the 3 Kings 12 days after he was born
What do families do on Christmas day in Mexico?
Re-heat the food from the night before, big family gathering.
How do children contact the 3 Kings?
They attach a letter to a balloon
What is the traditional pinata used at Christmas time?
7 point star pinata, representing the 7 deadly sins
In English, Las Posadas means what?
Inn/ shelter/ place to stay
What is the significance of the 12 grapes on New Years in Spain?
12 wishes/ goals, one for each month of the year to come
How long is the Christmas season in Mexico? (Exact dates)
Dec 9 - Feb 2
What is Christmas Eve called in Mexico?
La Nochebuena