Preparing for Christmas in Mexico | How expatriate families enjoy December

Winter is a quiet season in Japan, but December in Mexico is a lively "festival of light and sound." Colorful piñatas appear on street corners, handmade wreaths hang from the front doors of homes, and at night, the sounds of children's laughter and fireworks fill the air.

For families living abroad, this time of year is a time when the joy of blending into local culture and the desire to preserve their Japanese heritage intersect. In this article, we'll introduce Christmas events in Mexico, ways for expatriate families to spend December, and tips for making memories.

What is a Posada? The Charm of Mexican Christmas

The Christmas season in Mexico begins on December 16th with a traditional event called "Posada." Based on the story of the birth of Jesus, neighbors and friends gather together and go around the houses singing songs - a heartwarming scene that can be seen almost every night.

In the backyard, children cheer as they break a piñata, while adults gather around a hot ponche (a hot fruit drink) and tamales. In some ways, it has a warmth similar to end-of-year events in Japan, in that it is a "community celebration of the end of the year."

Posada is not just an event, it is a time to feel connected with others.

Expatriate Family's "Two Christmases": A Hybrid of Local and Japanese

In Mexican households, December 24th is the main day of Christmas. It is a family-centered holiday, with the whole family gathering around the dinner table until late at night, exchanging gifts, and going to church.

Meanwhile, Japanese families are starting to miss the quiet Japanese Christmas of sushi and cake. So, we recommend a "hybrid Christmas," where you experience Posada at a local friend's house during the day, and then spend the evening with your family enjoying Japanese music and food. This is a way to mix the two cultures.

The moment when the warm people of Mexico meet the Japanese sensibility for careful living is a "luxurious seasonal experience" that can only be enjoyed by living abroad.

Mexican Christmas decorations for the whole family

As December approaches, Mexican supermarkets and markets suddenly become more colorful. Ornaments, piñatas, candles, wreaths, nacimiento (nativity decorations)...all have a handmade feel and come in a wide variety of colors and shapes.

Particularly impressive are the beauty of the glass and ceramic ornaments . The patterns and colors vary from region to region, and when they are hung on the tree, even the reflection of light is felt in a rich way.

The best part is decorating the tree with your family . Choosing your favorite ornaments and putting them on the tree while laughing with your children is a moment that truly symbolizes a warm Mexican Christmas.

In the silence that follows the lighting of the lights, the happiness of everyday life suddenly comes to mind. It is a time when you can feel the true meaning of "spending time with family" in a way that is different from Japan.

summary

1. Posada is a traditional Mexican event that celebrates connections between people.

2. Mixing local and Japanese cultures will enhance the enjoyment of your expatriate life.

3. Decorating the tree and putting up decorations as a family will be the best memories.

🎄At Maruwa, we offer seasonal experience support to help you enrich your life in Mexico.

From introducing local culture to family-friendly events and safe transportation support.

We help expatriate families live a life filled with peace of mind, discovery, and smiles.

📩Please feel free to contact us.