Many of us are familiar with the holiday traditions practiced here and abroad. But there are lots of little-known and unique ways to celebrate the holidays. Here are two examples:
Las Posadas (Mexico): Dec. 16 through Dec. 24 is the time to celebrate "Las Posadas" in Mexico. The holiday commemorates Mary and Joseph's journey from Nazareth to participate in the mandated census and their search for shelter once they arrived in Bethlehem.
Every evening during the celebration of Las Posadas a party is held in a different household. The guests, gather outside the host's home, each carrying a lit candle and singing songs recounting Mary and Joseph's search for shelter in Bethlehem. Upon reaching the door, the crowd divides in two.
One half remains outside the house singing traditional songs begging for shelter to the other half, which has moved into the house. This continues until the owner of the house recognizes Mary and Joseph and invites them in. Then the party begins!
Pi?±atas are an important part of the Las Posadas celebration. The pi?±ata is a clay jar covered with colorful paper, usually formed in the shape of a star-commemorating the star that mysteriously guided the Three Kings to the newborn Jesus.
The pi?±atas are filled with fruit, candy, and sometimes money. During the festivities, delicious food is served along with ponche, a hot drink made with pears, prunes, guavas, tecojotes (Mexican seasonal fruit), cinnamon, sugar canes and either tequila or rum.
Kwanzaa (United States): Kwanzaa [kwahn-zuh] means "first fruits" in Swahili. An African-American originating in California in the late '60s, it is a beautiful celebration that commemorates heritage and reminds African Americans of the importance of their values. It begins Dec. 26 and ends Jan. 1.
Kwanzaa lasts seven days; each day represents a principle. A Kwanzaa candelabra, called a Kinara, is placed prominently in each household and every day a candle is lit to represent a principle.
Day 1 - Umoja - UnityDay 2 - Kujichagulia - Self-determinationDay 3 - Ujima - Collective Work and ResponsibilityDay 4 - Ujamaa - Cooperative EconomicsDay 5 - Nia - PurposeDay 6 - Kuumba - CreativityDay 7 - Imani - Faith
The last two days of Kwanzaa are the most important. On the evening of Dec. 31 is Karamu, a feast to celebrate and promote the African-American culture and traditions. During the Karamu, people remember their ancestors, recommit to their values and call for a greater unity. On the last day, Imani, gifts are given to reaffirm self-worth.
