Christmas in our childcare center Maison Michelle
In the midst of Guatemala's colorful backdrop, our childcare center experiences a very special time of the year - the Christmas season. For 'Maison Michelle,' it's the first Christmas celebration, making this year's holiday particularly special for us at The M Story.
Together, let's take a behind-the-scenes look and introduce you to typical Guatemalan Christmas customs and show you how we celebrate the season of love with the children at the daycare center. To create a festive atmosphere and fully enjoy the anticipation of Christmas, our local volunteers have put in a lot of effort.
Like every country, Guatemala also has its own traditions and customs when it comes to the Christmas holidays. The festive atmosphere extends throughout the country, from lively street markets to traditional family celebrations.
The Christmas season in Guatemala begins with the famous Posadas processions. These festive parades represent the journey of Mary and Joseph in search of shelter in Bethlehem. The nine-day celebration runs from December 15th to the 23rd. Elaborately decorated lanterns and colorful procession images are carried through the streets. Communities participate with songs and prayers as they move from house to house, asking for entry. Families and communities gather to observe the nine days leading up to Christmas Eve. Each day represents a year of Mary and Joseph's search. On the final day, a midnight mass is celebrated, followed by a festive gathering with music, dance, and traditional treats.
We also celebrated this tradition with the children at the daycare center and hosted our own little Posada this week: from Elvia's apartment to the nativity scene crafted by the children themselves.
The Christmas season provides the perfect opportunity for crafting ideas. The children let their imagination run wild and adorned the daycare center with festive decorations while decorating the Christmas tree. Afterward, they diligently wrote letters to Santa, which they then placed under the tree.
In the kitchen, there was also a flurry of stirring, kneading, and baking. Together, the children created Guatemalan Christmas treats that delighted not only their stomachs but also their hearts. The sweet aromas spread a festive atmosphere throughout the daycare center. The delicacies were especially prepared by the children for our Posada celebration.
Christmas at the daycare center 'Maison Michelle' is more than just a festive season—it's a journey through cultural diversity, joy, and community. In a country characterized by vibrant colors and cheerful rhythms, Christmas becomes a radiant celebration of love and solidarity. 🎄✨
Merry Christmas from Maison Michelle!