Posadas are not just a religious tradition: they are a community ritual deeply rooted in the identity of millions of Latinos, especially Mexicans and Central Americans.
Celebrated from December 16 to 24, these festivities recreate the pilgrimage of Mary and Joseph in search of a place for the birth of the baby Jesus. Each night, a host family opens its doors, and amidst songs, candles, piñatas, tamales and punch, faith, coexistence and hope are renewed.
Do you remember the posadas?
But for Latinos living in the United States, the posadas mean much more.
They are a powerful tool of cultural resistance, a way to raise bicultural children with pride in their roots.
They are also a reminder that no border can break the connection with our land and our customs.
Living tradition in times of change
Over time, many immigrants have had to adapt the celebration.
Instead of walking the streets of a neighborhood as in their hometowns, they do so inside apartments, churches or community centers.
Some families organize virtual posadas with their loved ones on the other side of the wall.
In many cases, they even invite American neighbors to participate, turning the tradition into an act of integration that generates curiosity, empathy and respect.
This context makes posadas, today more than ever, an act of cultural affirmation.
Celebrating them in the USA is not only possible, but necessary: it helps our children not to forget who they are and offers a space for community in an environment often marked by loneliness or nostalgia.
Why celebrating in the U.S. strengthens the community
Preserves cultural identity: in a country where it is easy to assimilate and forget traditions, posadas offer a concrete opportunity to teach new generations about the faith, hospitality and history of our people.
It strengthens the sense of community: organizing a posada – even a small one – allows us to connect with other Latinos, share food, songs and experiences. It is a reminder that we are not alone.
Combat homesickness and isolation: especially for newcomers, these holidays bring a little piece of home and contribute to emotional well-being during the holiday season.
Generates spaces for inclusion: by inviting people from other cultures to share the tradition, bridges of understanding are built between communities.
More current than ever
Buzzy
In the midst of a political context that has often been hostile towards immigrants, celebrating the posadas in the U.S. becomes an act of dignity.
It is a way of saying “we are here, we contribute to this country and we bring with us the best of our cultures”.
Whether in Texas, California, New York or North Carolina, more and more communities are reviving these traditions, organizing processions, songs and piñatas in parks, parishes and cultural centers.
And that rebirth is a symbol of strength and belonging.
The posadas recreate the pilgrimage of Mary and Joseph in search of a place for the birth of the baby Jesus
