Planning Guide to a Traditional Nochebuena Holiday Celebration
My household is comprised of mixed heritages so we celebrate the holidays in all kinds of ways. My husband’s family comes from Mexico and on my side we are mostly English and Irish. Our kids are lucky to have so much diversity because it just means more reasons celebrate!
Being that the majority of Mexicans identify as Catholic, Christmas is definitely a major holiday observed both in Mexico and in the U.S. by Mexican-Americans. For Mexicans the holiday season begins in mid-December with nighttime celebrations of Posadas. Posada festivities include singing, a Christmas star piñata and merriment in the streets of Mexico.
Christmas Day is the big event for most Western cultures with a morning family brunch, opening gifts and then a big Christmas dinner. In Latino households Christmas Eve is known as Nochebuena which translate to “A Good Night” in Spanish. Nochebuena is the biggest evening of celebration for traditional Mexican families and it’s the one my husband remembers most from his childhood.
Of course every family in Mexico and the Unites States celebrates the Christmas holidays a little different. For this blog post I did research by speaking with my Mexican-born in-laws and asking them about their family traditions for Nochebuena.
This Nochebuena holiday guide will help you plan your own Mexican-themed Christmas with traditional foods, decorations, music and activities.
Papel Picado
Papel picado refers to the cut-out paper banners used to decorate the streets and inside the homes in Mexico on any major holiday. These vibrant and colorful decorations are very unique and recognizable to Mexican culture. You can shop for all kinds of colors and designs of papel picado on Etsy.
Christmas Trees / Arbol De Navidad
One shared tradition with Mexico and the United States is the decorating of a Christmas tree. Mexican arboles de Navidad have bright and colorful handmade ornaments along with twinkling lights. Our favorite tree skirt is made from the traditional Mexican serape woven fabric which is filled with bold colors.
Mexican Glass Prayer Candles
Mexican prayer candles come in a very particular style. They’re in a tall and thin glass jar and are usually adorned with either a religious symbol or a festive motif. Lighting candles on the night of Nochebuena adds some extra twinkle and ambiance to the evening and really makes you feel those cozy Christmas vibes.
Nochebuena Flores / Poinsettia
Poinsettia flowers are synonymous with Christmas across the world, but they’re actually originally from Central America and date back to the Aztecs. These flowers are so connected to Mexican Christmas that the actually call them Nochebuenas. Add a botanical touch to your holiday decor with these bold red and white flowers.
Traditional Mexican Foods to Serve for Nochebuena Dinner
Tamales
For any big family gathering the women in my in-law family make a huge batch of tamales. This labor intensive food is made of corn masa stuffed with either seasoned chicken, pork, cheese and chilies. Tamales are by far my favorite Mexican food, during the holiday season I will sneak to refrigerator and eat them for all 3 meals of the day!
If you live in a city with a high Mexican population, you may be able to purchase pre-made tamales for Nochebuena.
Pavo / Turkey with Mole
In the United States we associate a roasted turkey with Thanksgiving, but many Mexican families have a roasted turkey for Nochebuena dinner. The turkey may also be served with the chili based mole sauce for some added flavor.
Elote / Mexican Street Corn
Mexican elote has been dubbed “street corn” because street venders in Mexico sell this particular style of corn to the public as a ready-to-eat snack. Elote is made with fresh corn on the cob seasoned with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder and lime.
Arroz Y Frijoles / Rice and Beans
A staple side dish at Mexican meals is pinto beans, either whole or refried. Commonly served alongside Arroz Rojo (translates to red Mexican rice). The fried rice gets it’s red color from tomatoes and spices. The flavors compliment pretty much any Mexican main dish.
Guacamole with Chips
Freshly made guacamole is always a crowd pleaser. My in-laws make guacamole with minimal ingredients - mashed fresh avocados, lime juice, finely chopped onions, salt and pepper. For some added spice serve alongside salsa with chips.
Pozole
This traditional Mexican stew is very hearty and full of flavor. In pozole you’ll commonly find hominy and a meat such as chicken or pork. Your finished bowl of soup can be garnished with shredded lettuce or cabbage, chile peppers, onion, garlic, radishes, avocado, salsa or limes.
Pan Dulce
Pan dulce translates to Mexican sweet bread and they’re a treat we always have around the house for family gatherings. The concha (translates to “shell”) is one of the most popular flavors of pan dulce, although my personal favorites are the Mantecadas (sweet muffins) and galletas (sprinkle cookies).
Mexican Hot Chocolate
After dinner you can relax with a full belly and sip on a cup of chocolate. Mexican hot chocolate has a robust flavor seasoned with cinnamon, nutmeg, evaporated milk, vanilla extract and possibly even cayenne pepper. Abuelita’s is the most popular brand of Mexican hot chocolate and is available to purchase at retailers like Target.
Ponche con Piquete
If you’re looking for a boozy fix, ponche is similar to a hot mulled wine punch The alcohol could be tequila, rum or brandy. And of course Mexicans also love an ice cold cerveza beer.
Traditional Mexican Holiday Games & Activities
Open Christmas Gifts
Nochebuena is traditionally when Mexican families and friends open their gifts sitting next to the Christmas tree. Christmas Day is spent playing with new toys, eating leftovers and visiting with loved ones.
Loteria Card Game
The Mexican Loteria card game is very similar to American bingo, a fun game to play with a crowd. Grab some beverages and let the games begin!
Mexican Christmas Star Piñatas
Pinatas are incorporated into many Mexican celebrations, and the Christmas star piñata is the most traditional for the winter holiday. The piñata is filled with candy and small toys, hung from the ceiling or a tree, and then children take turns at trying to hit the piñata with a bat while blindfolded.
Mexican Music to Play the Night of Nochebuena
Mexican celebrations always have lively music playing which instantly boosts up the energy levels. Below you’ll find some of our favorite Mexican songs that we play in our house and at family gatherings.
Favorite Songs from Mexican & Latin Musicians
Cumbia Sampuesana Party Anthem
