Discover the Magic: Top 3 Unique and Fun Facts About Christmas in Guatemala

1. Devilish Bonfires

Forget about Tidings of Comfort and Joy, Guatemalans prefer their Christmas season with a dash of mischief and a sprinkle of anarchy: On December 7th, they kick off festivities with el Día del Diablo or the Day of the Devil, where bonfires are lit and effigies of the horned one are burnt, symbolizing a ritual cleansing to banish bad spirits and usher in the Yuletide spirit with a dose of pyromaniacal cheer.
Source => atastefortravel.ca

2. Epic Nativity Scenes

Keeping up with the "creche-dashians" in Guatemala is a whole different ball game: it can take up to 15 days to complete a single nativity scene, known as the "Nacimiento," which sometimes feature life-sized figures and are so intricately designed that they become works of art, complete with antique sculptures of Mary, Joseph, and the Three Wise Men, all crafted from materials like moss, sawdust, and lights, bought in special markets dedicated to the beloved custom.
Source => spanishacademyantiguena.com

Did you know that in Mexico, a seven-pointed star piñata helps conquer the seven deadly sins during Christmas? Discover how this festive tradition signifies the triumph over vices and showers everyone with candy and toys!

=> Fun Facts about Christmas-In-Mexico

3. Shoe-Polish Present Ploy

Who needs stockings when you've got shoes? Guatemalan children know the best formula for receiving gifts: just apply shoe polish and activate puppy-dog eyes on January 5th: On the night before Día de Reyes or Three Kings Day, children put out their shoes and wake up to find them filled with presents from the Three Wise Men on January 6th, a delightful tradition inspired by the Magi's gifts to baby Jesus.
Source => growingupbilingual.com