Updated for 2023
Las Posadas is the celebration that commemorates the journey Mary and Joseph took from Nazareth to Bethlehem as they searched for shelter in preparation of Jesus’s birth. It is a popular tradition throughout Latin America and there are several places in Los Angeles and Southern California that continue the tradition.
If you’ve never experienced one, the ritual involves a reenactment of the Holy Family going from place to place, seeking to be allowed entrance.
The group representing the Holy Family stands outside a series of houses, singing songs, asking for lodging. They are refused time and again until the group reaches the designated house. Finally, the travelers are permitted to enter. Prayer and song continue in the home, and festive foods are shared. The evening ends with a piñata in the shape of star.
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We hope you get the chance to experience Las Posadas this holiday season in Los Angeles. Enjoy!
See Las Posadas in SoCal
Pretend City Las Posadas
29 Hubble, Irvine, CA 92618
A posada is an important Latino holiday tradition that happens all over the world on each of the nine nights before Christmas. Join us at Pretend City on December 16th as we have a blast celebrating together through crafts and story time!
Las Posadas on Olvera Street
El Pueblo Historical Monument
125 Paseo de la Plaza Los Angeles, CA 90012
The Las Posadas celebration on Olvera Street is considered one of the oldest Christmas events in Los Angeles. For nine nights at 5:30 pm, beginning on December 16th through December 24th, families can watch or join a candlelight procession. There will also be a “free theatrical performance of the classic Mexican comedy La Pastorela following each evening procession” as well as the breaking of a children’s piñata.
Las Posadas Celebration
Heritage Park
12100 Mora Dr., Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670
This year, the City of Santa Fe Springs will host a Las Posadas celebration on December 8th from 6:30 – 9:30 pm. Bring the whole family out to enjoy this traditional cultural event as we take you through Mary and Joseph’s journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem in search of shelter through our guided, candle-lit procession through Heritage Park. As the last door is opened and shelter has been found, the celebration begins. Enjoy many of your favorite holiday carols sung in both English and Spanish throughout the night. Colorful performances by folklorico dancers and mariachi will take place on an outdoor stage and food will be available for purchase. To participate in the procession, meet at the main entrance of Heritage Park, 12100 Mora Drive, by 6:30 p.m. For more information, call the Heritage Park Office at (562) 946-6476.
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