35 We have only barely scratched the surface with regard to the many culturally important Christmas traditions that are observed around the world but this small sample shows the incredible diversity of Christmas traditions in Europe & Mexico. A fascinating tradition is called Rosca de Reyes where a fruitbread is baked and inside hidden a small baby Jesus figure. Whoever gets the figure in their piece has to throw a tamale party on Feb. 2 to signify the end of the Christmas Season. That day is called Candelmas. December 16th-24th is known as Posadas, a time when children go door to door, singing and asking for a room at the inn, reminiscent of the journey of Mary & Joseph. Pinatas are often part of the celebration shown with seven spikes representing the seven deadly sins. Christmas day is celebrated with traditional Mexican food that includes tamales and Ponche which is a warm Christmas punch or Rompope which contains rum and is similar to eggnog. Feliz Navidad is the typical greeting in the mostly Catholic country of Mexico. The holiday season usually stretches from early December till February 2nd. The Nativity Scene is often featured as the main Christmas decoration, found in most homes as well as elaborate scenes in most public places, far more important than the Christmas tree. Jesus is absent from the manger until Chritmas.
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