Christmas in chiapas: a unique and authentic experience

How is Christmas celebrated in Chiapas?

Christmas in Chiapas is a celebration full of color, devotion and a fascinating syncretism between indigenous traditions and Catholic customs brought by the Spanish colonizers.

The cultural richness of the state, with its diverse indigenous communities and colonial history, make Chiapas a special place to experience the Christmas season.

In Chiapas, Christmas is not only a religious holiday, but a profound expression of identity and faith that involves the entire community.

Discover with Hertz Mexico some of the Christmas traditions of this state and the best places to experience a different Christmas in Chiapas.

Christmas in Chiapas: Fusion of customs and traditions

The arrival of the Spaniards in the 16th century brought with it the evangelization of the indigenous communities of Chiapas. Through the missionary friars, Christianity was introduced into the daily life of the indigenous peoples, but, instead of replacing their beliefs, many of the Catholic customs were fused with pre-Hispanic traditions, resulting in a unique fusion.

One of the clearest examples of this is the way indigenous communities celebrate religious holidays.

During Christmas in Chiapas, in addition to the birth of Jesus, ceremonies and rituals are celebrated that have deep roots in the indigenous cosmovision. Indigenous peoples such as the Tzotzil, Tzeltales and Zoques, preserve their connection with nature and agricultural cycles, which is reflected in their Christmas festivities.

Christmas altars not only include images of the Holy Family, but also symbols of Mother Earth and elements of nature, such as flowers, fruits, corn and other products of the earth, which represent abundance and gratitude.

The Flower Child tradition in Chiapa de Corzo and Alcalá

One of the most curious and beautiful traditions that takes place during Christmas in Chiapas is that of the Flower Child. This custom, which is celebrated mainly in Chiapa de Corzo and Alcalá, is a perfect example of how Catholic devotion and ancient indigenous customs intertwine to create a unique festivity.

Flower Child in Chiapa de Corzo

In Chiapa de Corzo, the Niño Florero involves an 8-day journey on foot to the Chiapas Highlands in search of the flower called Niluyarilu. This flower, which grows in the mountains, is collected by the inhabitants and used to decorate the altar of the Child Jesus in the temple of Santo Domingo de Guzman.

The process includes a pilgrimage in which the faithful walk through mountain paths until they find this precious flower.

The journey is a sign of faith and devotion and reflects the deep connection that the Chiapanecos have with nature, as the flowers are considered an offering to the divine. Once collected, the flowers are used to build the altar where the Baby Jesus will be placed, symbolizing rebirth and abundance of life.

Niño Florero in Alcalá

In Alcalá, the tradition is known as “La Peregrinación de la Traída de la Flor del Niño Dios” (The Pilgrimage of the Bringing of the Flower of the Child God) and takes place from December 15 to 25.

During these days, a group of inhabitants of Alcalá travels to San Cristóbal de las Casas, in the highlands of Chiapas, in search of the same flower, the Niluyarilu. The collected flowers, of a vibrant red color, will be used to build “La Casita” where the Child God will be born in the main church of the village.

This little house represents the symbolic home of Jesus and is meticulously decorated with the red flowers collected during the pilgrimage.

Before being placed in the church, the little house makes a walk through the main streets of Alcalá, accompanied by the inhabitants, who participate in the procession with songs and offerings.

This tradition unites the entire community in an act of thanksgiving, where the religious and the festive combine to create a unique atmosphere.

Best places to celebrate Christmas in Chiapas

While the entire region of Chiapas offers unique experiences during the Christmas season, some places stand out for their celebrations and the cultural richness that accompanies them. Each destination has something special and car rental is an excellent option to visit them and live extraordinary experiences at your own pace.

Best places to celebrate Christmas in Chiapas

While the entire region of Chiapas offers unique experiences during the Christmas season, some places stand out for their celebrations and the cultural richness that accompanies them. Each destination has something special and car rental is an excellent option to visit them and live extraordinary experiences at your own pace.

Some of the most outstanding places to spend Christmas in Chiapas are:

Chiapa de Corzo is, without a doubt, one of the best places to experience Christmas in Chiapas. This magical town is famous not only for the celebration of the Flower Child, but also for its tradition of the “parachicos”, a ceremonial dance that begins in mid-January, but has its roots in the Christmas festivities. During the Christmas holidays, Chiapa de Corzo is filled with processions, dances and religious celebrations that bring together locals and visitors alike.

San Cristobal de las Casas is a colonial city that offers a fascinating mix of indigenous and Spanish cultures. During Christmas, San Cristobal is illuminated with Christmas lights and cultural and religious events are held in its beautiful churches. In addition, in this city you can enjoy Christmas markets where local crafts, decorations and traditional foods are sold.

Tuxtla Gutiérrez, the state capital, also offers a very interesting Christmas atmosphere, with concerts, masses and activities for the whole family. It is an ideal place to take as a starting point if you want to visit the different towns during the December holidays, since in Tuxtla you can rent a car with Hertz Mexico. In addition, in this city you can enjoy a more urban celebration with the traditional and cultural touch that characterizes Chiapas.

Christmas in Chiapas is a festivity that goes beyond religious traditions; it is a celebration that unites communities in an act of faith, identity and gratitude. If you are looking for an authentic experience in Mexico, Chiapas is the destination to live an unforgettable Christmas.