Christmas in Mexico: Decorations

The Christmas season in Mexico begins in mid-December when many families retrieve their Nativity scenes from storage. Old pieces are cleaned and new figurines may be added to the family collection. In Mexico Nativity scenes are called nacimientos, which literally means "births.” The central figures of Joseph, Mary, and the baby Jesus are referred to as misterios, or "mysteries.” Along with Nativity scenes, piñatas, and poinsettias, some families now add a Christmas tree to their home decorations.