December 2017 Events in Sonora, Mexico

This last month of the year is when two of the country’s biggest religious events occur, the feast day of Mexico’s patron saint, the Virgin of Guadalupe, and Christmas. The Christmas season is also a time when friends, families and coworkers get together for the seasonal fiestas known as posadas.

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Festival Cultural “Sauce en el Agua” (Willow in the Water)
Hustabampo
This cultural and arts festival starts in late November, and celebrates the 142nd anniversary of the founding of Huatabampo. Its name reflects the meaning of the name Huatabampo, words in the language of the Mayo that mean “willow in the water.”

Peregrinations to the Virgin of Guadalupe

Many parishes have a peregrination procession on the days prior to the feast day of the Virgin of Guadalupe. Sometimes the processions collect canned goods and other non-perishable food items for the parish.

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Feast Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe
This is a major religious holiday in Mexico, as most pueblos hold celebrations in honor of the country’s patron saint. It is also the day of the largest peregrination procession for the Virgin of Guadalupe.

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Las Posadas
This is the traditional Christmas party season, so named in remembrance of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem.

During this time of the Christmas season, kindergarten and elementary school students may present a Pastorela, a play that depicts the Nativity.

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Christmas Eve
The last posada is held on Christmas Eve, also known as Noche Buena, when families traditionally have a late-night dinner. Masses are also held on Christmas Eve.

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Navidad – Christmas
Christmas Day masses, gift exchanges. The Christmas season continues until the Dia de los Tres Reyes (Day of the Three Kings) on January 6, when children receive their last Christmas gifts.

Año Nuevo – New Year’s Eve
December 31st