Las Posadas continues the tradition in Olvera Street since its founding in 1930

Considered one of the oldest Christmas traditions in Los Angeles, La Placita Olvera, also commonly referred to as Olvera Street, will host its annual end-of-year Las Posadas for nine consecutive nights. 

From December 16 to 24, La Placita Olvera commemorates one of the oldest stories of the origin of the Christmas holiday, when the Virgin Mary and St. Joseph searched for safe housing to welcome the birth of Jesus. 

Las Posadas, which in English translates to "lodging" or "accommodation," are popular in Mexico, Guatemala and other Central American countries. In L.A., the  Olvera Street Merchants Association Foundation (OSMAF) has kept this tradition alive for years. 

Las Posadas at Olvera Street begin at 6:30 p.m., with a children's piñata in the center plaza, unless there is any rain. 

What follows is the procession, considered the central and most important part of the event, beginning at the Avila Adobe home at 7:15 p.m. The pastores are led by angels and Mary and Joseph, reenacted by volunteers and followed by dozens of other worshipers. 

The procession will run up and down Olvera Street with the group singing songs in English and Spanish and requesting lodging at designated points, usually at the shops of the historical plaza. At the end of the procession, participants can enjoy a cup of hot champurrado and a piece of pan dulce. 

In the 15th century, Las Posadas were introduced to Mexico and other places in Central America by the Spaniards to teach native and indigenous people about Christmas and Christianity. 

As stated by Journey Mexico, when the Las Posadas began during the nine days leading up to Christmas Day, masses would include representations of Mary and Joseph. At the time, the Indigenous population celebrated a nine-day feast honoring the coming of an Aztec sun god.

Catholic missionaries, who were tasked to spread the Catholic faith and values, adapted the nine-day framework to Christianity. 

Although the celebration is rooted in religion, today’s Las Posadas signify a union of families and friends and are often held in neighborhoods and people’s homes instead of only religious settings. Despite religious practices, everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend the Las Posadas in Placita Olvera. 

Las Posadas at Olvera Street are free of charge and open to the public. For more information, visit www.olvera-street.com/las-posadas.