Christmas festivities begin on December 16 with "Las Posadas," nine days of candlelight processions and parties. On "Nocha Buena" (Christmas Eve), families attend the late-night "Misa de Gallo"--Rooster's Mass--followed by a traditional Christmas dinner. Dishes may include tamales, "atole" (corn gruel), "bacalao a la vizcaina" (Biscayan cod), and "revoltijo de romeritos" (wild greens in mole sauce). A hot fruit punch or sparkling cider complements the meal, followed by gift-opening, more piñatas, and sparklers for the children.

Mexican Christmas Recipes Mexican Hot Chocolate Flan Mexican Mexican Stew: Birria Mama's Red Tamales Corn Masa Pockets with Classic Shredded Beef: Gorditas con Carne Deshebrada Chicken Braised in Pumpkin Seed Mole Verde Traditional Pork Tamales Sopa Seca: Mexican Noodle Casserole Serrano Ham Wrapped Oysters with Chipotle Mayonnaise Panela-coated Scallops with Jicama, Grapefruit, and Roasted Garlic Mojo