In Mexico, the Christmas celebration begins nine days before December 25 with Las Posadas. During this time the people in the town go to a different home each night. At each home the story of Mary and Joseph seeking shelter at the inn is acted out.
Children use a stick to try to break the pinata.
During Christmas time the poinsettia flower is very popular. Also popular, are luminarios. These are small, decoratively cut paper bags lit with small candles. Santos or creche figures are an important part of a Mexican Christmas. The figures are used to recreate the nativity scene at the town's church.