One of the most representative moments of the Posadas is the traditional song that recreates the pilgrimage of Mary and Joseph in search of lodging.
Beyond the music, this exchange of verses is a symbolic performance steeped in history, faith and community that has survived for centuries and continues to be sung every December, even among Mexican families living in the United States.
Where does the song of the Posadas come from?
Asking for posada tastes different when we sing together. 🎶
This is the complete song to ask for posada. https://t.co/kJhhIoUmtP#Posada #Chant #Peregrinos #Advent pic.twitter.com/bgMbL5Dud2
– From the faith (@DesdeLaFeMx) December 15, 2025
The singing of Las Posadas originated in the 16th century, during the evangelization of New Spain.
The friars used it as a pedagogical tool to transmit the biblical account of Jesus’ birth to a largely illiterate population.
Through singing, values such as hospitality, compassion and solidarity were explained.
Over time, these verses became part of the popular tradition and were preserved almost intact, being transmitted orally from generation to generation.
What do the verses say and what do they mean?
On December 16 🇲🇽 the posadas begin, parties with punch and piñatas, but also with songs to “pedir posada” representing what Mary and Joseph did the night Jesus was going to be born. But these are not the only celebrations🎄🇲🇽 in which they sing: in Veracruz there is the branch pic.twitter.com/p0A0OAeVXS
– Pau𝕏 (@paux_gr) December 17, 2022
The song is divided into two parts:
Pilgrims, representing Mary and Joseph.
The hosts, who initially refuse to provide lodging.
When pilgrims sing “In the name of heaven, I ask you for shelter…”, they are symbolizing humility and the need for shelter.
The initial refusal of the hosts reflects the rejection faced by Mary and Joseph, as well as human indifference.
The key moment comes when the identity of the pilgrims is recognized, and then the doors are opened.
This act symbolizes the opening of the heart, forgiveness and acceptance of others.
A ritual that educates and unites
🪅Starting tomorrow we kick off one of the most beloved traditions of #Christmas. The posadas bring us together to remember the path of the pilgrims, share songs, lights, #piñatas and strengthen the coexistence between neighbors.
It’s time to open the doors,… pic.twitter.com/RtoJe74S8W
– opciÓN.mx (@opcion_mx) December 15, 2025
For children, the singing of the Posadas is a participatory experience that combines music, play and learning.
For adults, it is a reminder of fundamental values that are still valid.
Singing fosters community coexistence, reinforces cultural identity and creates a space for intergenerational encounters.
In the United States, many families continue to sing the verses in Spanish, even when the children are bilingual, as a way of preserving language and cultural roots.
Despite the passage of time, the singing of the Posadas is maintained because it is not only a religious tradition, but a shared cultural expression.
Adapted to homes, apartments, churches and community centers, it continues to be a way to gather, socialize and remember the origin of the Christmas celebration.
Singing the Posadas is not just repeating old verses: it is reliving a collective history that still has meaning today.
