Guatemala

Mateo Guatemala is a 42,043 square mile country located directly south of Mexico that is part of the group of countries known as Central America. The population of Guatemala is estimated to be around 13,000,000 people. Guatemala first became independent from Spain in 1821, and then joined the Mexican empire. Guatemalan people speak a few different languages, but the primary language is spanish.

Nine days before Christmas, posada processions pass through streets of Guatemala. The beat of drums, and the crackle of bright fireworks provide lively accompaniment as detailed figures of Mary and Joseph are carried to a friend, or neighbors house. Here carols are sung asking for lodging for the Holy Family. Ritual questions are then asked until finally Mary and Josrph are welcomed, and then taken to nacimiento (manger scene). Mary and Joseph wll remain here until the following night were the ritual is passed on. On the evening of Christmas eve the figure of the Christ Child is addes to the nacimiento. The last of the nine houses to recieve the Holy Family is where the biggest party of the season occurs. Punch and hot tamales are served along with music and dancing. On this night the Christmas tree is now added to nacimiento. There is a large German population located in Guatemala which is the reason for adding the Christmas tree. Gifts are left under the tree by the Christ child, but adults do not exchange gifts until New Years day.

The Christmas season in Guatemala begins on December 7th. With “La Quema del Diablo.” (The burning of the devil). At exactly 6 p.m. on this day most Guatemalans build a “fogata,” (bonfire) outside their houses and toss the “devil,” (a piñata filled with firecrackers) into it. The “devil” stands for all the sins people accumulated during the year. People believe that “burning his efigy” cleanses them and makes them ready to receive in their hearts the Virgin of the Immaculate Conception whose feast is celebrated the next day. According to Guatemalan historian Miguel Álvarez Arévalo, the origin of “the bonfires” may be traced to colonial times when, the well-to-do, placed elaborate lanterns in the front of their homes to celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. How the “devil” came into the tradition is unknown, but according to historian Celso A. Lara Figueroa, the preaching priests described how the Virgin Mary squashed the head of the devil established the link.

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