Third Day of Las Posadas

What Is Third Day of Las Posadas?

The Third Day of Las Posadas is a specific day within the nine-day observance known as Las Posadas, a traditional Mexican celebration leading up to Christmas. This period commemorates the journey of Mary and Joseph from Nazareth to Bethlehem and their search for shelter. Each day, from 16th to 24th December, represents a distinct stage of this biblical narrative.

On the Third Day of Las Posadas, which falls on 18th December, participants continue the customary procession and community gatherings. It maintains the celebratory structure established on the previous two days, building anticipation towards Christmas Eve. This observance highlights community cohesion and shared cultural heritage.

History and Origins of Third Day of Las Posadas

The tradition of Las Posadas originated in colonial Mexico during the 16th century. Spanish Augustinian friars are credited with introducing and adapting the custom to evangelise the indigenous populations. They combined European Christmas traditions with existing pre-Hispanic winter solstice celebrations.

Originally, these observances often took place within church grounds, sometimes featuring elaborate processions. Over time, the custom evolved and moved into private homes and community streets, becoming a central part of Mexican popular culture. The nine days of Las Posadas are understood to symbolise the nine months of Mary’s pregnancy, culminating in the birth of Jesus on Christmas Eve. The Third Day simply represents the third iteration of this ongoing re-enactment.

How Third Day of Las Posadas Is Celebrated

The celebration of the Third Day of Las Posadas follows the established pattern for each night of the observance. Typically, it begins with a procession, often led by children dressed as angels, or figures representing Mary and Joseph, sometimes riding a donkey. Participants carry candles, sing traditional carols known as villancicos, and proceed through the neighbourhood.

The procession stops at several houses, where a group outside (representing Joseph) sings a petition for lodging, and the group inside (representing the innkeepers) sings a refusal. This call-and-response continues until the procession arrives at the designated home for that evening, where the ‘innkeepers’ finally grant entry. Inside, a prayer session often takes place, frequently including a Rosary.

Following the religious observance, the celebration transforms into a festive gathering. Hosts typically offer traditional Mexican refreshments such as ponche (a warm fruit punch), tamales, and other seasonal foods. A highlight for children is often the breaking of a piñata, usually shaped as a star, filled with sweets and small toys.

When Is Third Day of Las Posadas?

The Third Day of Las Posadas is a fixed observance that falls on 18th December each year. The entire Las Posadas period runs for nine consecutive days, commencing on 16th December and concluding on 24th December, which is Christmas Eve. Each day represents a specific stage of the journey undertaken by Mary and Joseph. This consistent timing makes it an integral and predictable part of the pre-Christmas season in Mexico.

Third Day of Las Posadas Key Facts