Our First Nativity Scene Set: Latino Holiday Traditions

Teaching about the Cuban  Tradition of the Nativity Scene

My daughter has become enchanted with the religious holiday traditions of Christmas. I love that she is learning more about what makes this time of year special. Though much of this learning comes from her preschool, I decided to reinforce the lessons by including our first nativity scene set into our holiday decor. In addition to the religious aspect, nativity scenes are a huge part of the cultural celebrations of Noche Buena, Las Posadas and the Caribbean version called Parrandas.

As a little girl, I remember playing with the various nativity scene sets that my family owned. Cuban Christmas with Noche Buena was a time for the little doll-like sets to make their appearance and I reveled in them all season long. In Mexican tradition, Las Posadas (translated as lodging) re-enact the search for shelter and scene of the nativity. It’s a beautiful 9 day celebration that celebrates each month of pregnancy and eventual birth of Jesus.

So when Walmart asked me to share a bit about our Latino holiday traditions surrounding Las Posadas y Parrandas, I decided it was the perfect time to pick up our family’s first nativity scene set.

All the nativity scene sets of my youth comprised, at the minimum, the typical figures of the birth of Jesus. Some had even more, including various animals. I wanted to ensure that our first family nativity scene set consisted the same figures, too, but didn’t sacrifice on quality. Our local Walmart had a decent selection, although there was many more to choose from online.

Ultimately, I decided on an 8 piece nativity set plus a rustic shelter lodge that looks almost exactly like the one my mother used to own. It’s perfect and sized just right for our entry table to welcome guests.

As a young Catholic school girl, I remember re-enacting nativity scenes. As a little Cuban girl, the nativity scene sets within my family are treasured heirlooms that get passed down generations. And now, growing up as a very bicultural little girl, I’m happy to pass down this Latino holiday tradition with Alina…

Almost immediately, Alina took to the little figurines, setting up her own version of the nativity scene to take a picture with her “phone” – all the while discussing the lessons she’s learned at school and home about the reason for the season.

*Disclosure: As a participant of the Walmart Moms program, I was provided samples and compensation for my time to create this post. All opinions are my own.