December is a great time to think about visiting Cozumel. The island comes alive with a unique blend of Mexican traditions and a sprinkle of coastal magic that will create wonderful memories. Let's dive into the local festivities that make Cozumel the ultimate holiday destination.
Festival of The Virgin of Guadalupe – December 12th
The Virgin of Guadalupe holds profound significance for Mexicans, revered as the patroness of the country. Her importance stems from the iconic appearance to Juan Diego, an indigenous man, in 1531. The Virgin's image imprinted on Juan Diego's cloak, known as the tilma, became a symbol of Mexican identity, unity, and faith.
She's seen as a unifying force, bridging indigenous beliefs with Catholicism, representing hope, protection, and empowerment. Her story embodies the convergence of cultures and is a powerful emblem of Mexican spirituality, resilience, and national pride. Celebrated fervently on December 12th, her feast day, the Virgin of Guadalupe remains integral to Mexican culture and heritage.
Cozumel adds its unique flair to the festivities, blending local traditions with the nationwide jubilation. Celebrations begin on December 1 at the Catholic Church Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe and culminate with a large parade where local families fill the streets. Following the parade, groups pilgrimage around the island to honor the day.
December 1-23: Singing of "La Rama" in Cozumel
Now, here's a charming local adaptation: "La Rama." This tradition, originally rooted in Spanish heritage, has become part of pre-Christmas culture in Cozumel. Small groups of children carry a decorated branch (rama) through the streets of downtown Cozumel eager to sing La Rama to anyone who will listen. It's a delightful sight, brimming with joy and infectious energy. At the song's end, if money is given, they will sing, “ La Rama leaves grateful as it was well received in this house.” And if no money is given, the song will end saying, “ La Rama leaves with a heavy heart as in this house we received nothing.”
Posadas: Traditional Christmas Parties
Ah, Posadas! These lively gatherings are the heartbeat of Mexican holiday traditions. Of course, over time there are many forms that the posada takes, some quite informal. But traditionally, and still the norm, families and friends come together, reenacting Mary and Joseph's journey to Bethlehem. The word “posada” does not mean “party” as it would seem, but “inn” or lodging.
The traditional posadas take place on nine nights from December 16-24 and commemorate Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter. Besides the re-enactment, there will be a large dinner, drinks, and a piñata to break open. Here you will almost always see the traditional piñata with 7 points, representing the 7 deadly sins.
Nowadays, any party around Christmastime is called a posada. Almost all businesses will hold posadas for their employees, treating them to a night of delicious food and often a raffle or gifts. There are posadas at school and just about any group or club. While you will be able to find places to eat during December, you may discover that your favorite restaurant is closed one night to host a posada.
Christmas Eve in Cozumel
Many people planning their vacations in Cozumel during the Christmas season worry that everything will be closed on Christmas day. Rest assured that almost everything will be up and running as normal in Cozumel. This is a big time of year for tourism and cruise ships and flights pick up around this time. The island needs to be open for business! But a bigger reason is that in Mexico, the main Christmas celebrations take place on the 24th, not the 25th.
Most businesses will close early (around 6 or 7) on Christmas Eve as families will gather for their final posada. There will be a big dinner, lots of tamales and ponche (a traditional punch served at Christmastime) and gifts are opened at midnight. In true island spirit, Cozumel takes things up a notch and many families will party and sing karaoke until sunrise. You can also expect fireworks in front of many homes at midnight. (If you’re a light sleeper and staying in a local neighborhood, it’s a good idea to bring a pair of earplugs just in case.)
While Santa is becoming part of the tradition here as well, most children will not get gifts from Santa but from the Three Kings on January 6th.
Spending the December Holidays in Cozumel
With cooler temperatures and so many festive traditions, December is the perfect month to spend in Cozumel. Welcom Cozumel will help you find the best rental to have a comfortable and memorable stay. From there, you decide how you want to celebrate. Maybe you want to start a new tradition of dressing in shorts and flip-flops as you sip a cold beer and have delicious tacos for your Christmas dinner. Or maybe you want to put on a special Christmas outfit and make a reservation at one of the many new upscale restaurants that will be serving Christmas Eve and Christmas menus. There are also many wonderful local chefs who will bring a mouth-watering meal to your rented home.
If you have been wondering what it would be like to spend time in Cozumel during December, stop thinking, book that ticket, and reserve your Cozumel vacation home! We’ll be here waiting!
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