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Las Posadas is a festivity that brings together community, tradition and holiday spirit. The word posada means "inn" or "shelter" in Spanish, and the event reenacts Mary and Joseph’s search for a place to stay in Bethlehem. This tradition originated in 16th-century Mexico, when Spanish missionaries combined Catholic teachings with indigenous customs, creating a unique blend of faith and family.
Each evening during Las Posadas, participants gather to walk through their neighborhoods, knock on doors, sing traditional songs and ask for shelter. Children often lead the procession, dressed as Mary and Joseph, while musicians follow, playing guitars, tambourines, and other traditional instruments. At each stop, the hosts symbolically deny them entry, reflecting the rejection Mary and Joseph experienced.
The journey eventually ends at a designated home or community center, where the group is warmly welcomed inside. What follows is a lively celebration filled with delicious foods like tamales, ponche, buñuelos and atole. Children enjoy breaking piñatas filled with candy and small toys, adding an extra layer of excitement to the evening. This ceremony serves as a spiritual preparation for Christmas, emphasizing the values of hospitality, faith and charity.
In many U.S. cities with significant Mexican populations, churches, community centers and families organize posadas to foster a sense of belonging. In the Inland Empire, Las Posadas is a cherished tradition that highlights the richness of Latino culture. Communities come together to rejoice with colorful dances, music and festive gatherings that capture the bliss of the holiday season.
Las Posadas is more than just a celebration; it’s a vibrant expression of faith, tradition, and community that unites families across time. It offers parents and grandparents a meaningful way to pass down cherished customs, ensuring that younger members stay connected to their cultural identity and values. Additionally, the ritual fosters social exchange, providing a chance for people to share their holiday traditions while promoting understanding and inclusivity.
As the soft glow of candlelight winds its way through neighborhoods, it illuminates the resilience and pride of a people who carry their culture with honor. In a world that can often feel disconnected, this practice serves as a powerful reminder of unity, kindness, and the bonds of shared heritage. Whether observed in a Mexican village or the cities of the Inland Empire, its message remains clear and timeless: there is always room for everyone at the table.
Moreno Valley
Las Posadas at St. Christopher Parish
This event will begin at 6:30 PM with a special Mass featuring a reflection on the meaning of Christmas. Children preparing for First Communion at the parish will dress as Mary and Joseph, leading a traditional posada procession.
Guests will enjoy a delightful spread of treats, including hot chocolate, bread, ponche, tamales, pizza or pupusas. The organizers will surprise the community each evening with a unique food selection, offering something new to savor and enjoy. Join the congregation for a celebration of faith, tradition and community.
When: December 16 to 23 at 6:30 pm.
Location: 25075 Cottonwood Avenue, Moreno Valley, CA 92553.
Cost: Free.
Riverside
Experience a cozy afternoon of stories, music, and songs that celebrate the happiness of the season. This family-friendly event offers a fun and engaging way to learn about posadas while appreciating the library’s welcoming 10,000-square-foot space, which houses nearly 30,000 materials, including a diverse collection of Spanish-language books. It’s a festive celebration designed to bring the community together and create lasting holiday memories
When: December 18 at 3:30 pm.
Location: SSgt. Salvador J. Lara Casa Blanca Library, 2985 Madison Street, Riverside, CA 92504.
Cost: Free.
Ontario
Pura Vida Market Posada Navideña
This market unites diverse small businesses to showcase their products while celebrating the cherished tradition of posadas. Visitors can explore offerings from over 50 vendors, including soaps, crafts, home décor and jewelry, and savor delicious food like mouthwatering birria. The event also features hourly raffles, live music and vibrant dance performances, all in a pet-friendly atmosphere.
When: Saturday, December 7 from 12 to 5 pm.
Location: 11255 Central Ave. Ontario, CA 91762.
Cost: Free.
Unidos Por La Musica Presents La Posada
Come celebrate with the non-profit Unidos Por La Musica (UPLM) during an evening of dancing and live music. Savor delicious food and drinks while experiencing performances from skilled local artists. This event offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with friends and family while also supporting UPLM’s mission to promote economic independence and upward mobility in underserved communities through education and music.
When: Thursday, December 19 from 7 to 11 pm.
Location: Unidos Por La Musica Center 2171 South Grove Avenue Unit H, Ontario, CA 91761.
Cost: $55.20
Coachella Valley
Las Posadas Navideñas con La Poderosa 96.7FM
For over 20 years, La Poderosa 96.7FM has hosted the annual Posadas in the Coachella Valley, partnering with businesses across the Inland Empire, including Cathedral City, Indio and Rancho Mirage. During the activity, participants will enjoy traditional champurrado and tamales, live music, toy giveaways and exciting surprises.
When: December 9-23 from 5 to 7pm.
Location: Various locations.
Cost: Free.
Upland
St. Anthony Catholic Church invites the community to celebrate the holiday season with their traditional Christmas Posada. Guests can look forward to an evening of lively games, delicious atole and punch, piñatas and music. The experience will also feature a procession. This family-friendly celebration promises fun for all ages.
When: December 22 from 4 to 9 pm.
Location: St. Anthony Catholic Church,2110 North San Antonio Ave, Upland, CA 91784
Cost: Free
Indio
Posadas Navideñas at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church
Join the congregation for a special spiritual celebration. Participants will pray the Rosary, sing joyful Christmas carols while asking for posada, and amuse the children with piñatas and candy bags. This festive occasion offers an opportunity to live out the faith and reflect on the themes of love, compassion, and unity.
When: December 16-23 at 6:30 pm.
Location: Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church. 82470-B Bliss St - Indio, CA 92201
Cost: Free.
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