The novena (a prayer said on nine consecutive days) of Las Posadas traditionally begins on December 16th and continues through Christmas Eve, each night a search for shelter, a series of refusals, and a final resting place.
Two years ago, we began our "Christmas Traditions Around the World" study-- that first year we learned about a custom that originated in Spain. There is so much rich tradition behind "Las Posadas" and the actual procession varies from region to region, so I won't explain it all here (see resource list below) but the kids learned a lot!
After reading some books and discussing the meaning behind this beautiful tradition, the kids pulled together some costumes (loosely speaking) and reenacted "Las Posadas". We had to make some modifications to fit our situation and time frame, but all and all I think it gave the kids a good idea of what it would be like. We had a little script-- there two parts-- the inn keeper and Joseph. Each sings (or in our case says) his lines.
Once he has realized that the Queen of Heaven is at his door (the 9th time around), the inn keeper throws open the door and welcomes Joseph and Mary inside. Then everyone from inside and outside sings songs-- in our case, Silent Night (because our pianist could play it :)). We ended the whole thing with some hot chocolate. No matter what region I researched, Las Posadas always seems to end with hot chocolate and cookies!
Books:
Christmas in Mexico
The Night of Las Posadas by Tomie dePaola
These two books were especially helpful:
Carlos, Light the Farolito
Las Posadas: An Hispanic Christmas Celebration (we used the script from the back of this book)
Year 2: Sweden (St. Lucia)
Planning
Our Day with Christmas in Sweden
Two years ago, we began our "Christmas Traditions Around the World" study-- that first year we learned about a custom that originated in Spain. There is so much rich tradition behind "Las Posadas" and the actual procession varies from region to region, so I won't explain it all here (see resource list below) but the kids learned a lot!
After reading some books and discussing the meaning behind this beautiful tradition, the kids pulled together some costumes (loosely speaking) and reenacted "Las Posadas". We had to make some modifications to fit our situation and time frame, but all and all I think it gave the kids a good idea of what it would be like. We had a little script-- there two parts-- the inn keeper and Joseph. Each sings (or in our case says) his lines.
Joseph knocks loudly and asks for lodging for himself and Mary. The innkeeper responds-refusing lodging. (the inn keeper stays behind the door, but ours wanted to be in the picture)
Our peregrinos (pilgrims) processed around the yard 8 more times to come around and make their request again-- different words are used each time, and each time lodging is refused by the inn keeper.
Happy cousins, Paul and Julia, played Joseph and Mary (it is considered an honor to be chosen for these roles).
Online Resources:
Catholic CultureBooks:
Christmas in Mexico
The Night of Las Posadas by Tomie dePaola
These two books were especially helpful:
Carlos, Light the Farolito
Las Posadas: An Hispanic Christmas Celebration (we used the script from the back of this book)
Year 2: Sweden (St. Lucia)
Planning
Our Day with Christmas in Sweden
3 comments:
This is a great idea! Really makes the story come alive when the kids can act it out.
How wonderful are their faces ! you can tell they really enjoy it. we are very excited to begin learngin about Las Posadas this Advent in our home, and will be reading the Tomie de Paola book about it. I love the costumes!
I love this. We have a Spanish community at our church, so we went to their Las Posadas celebration. I loved it, even though I could only understand part of the words as my Spanish is not so good. I think we need to add this celebrations to our traditions. Thank you!
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