Las Posadas in English literally means “the inns” or “the lodgings.”

Basic meaning

  • The Spanish word posada translates to “inn,” “lodging,” or “place to stay.”
  • Because the celebration spans several nights, the plural form Las Posadas is used, so the phrase means “the inns” or “the lodgings.”

Cultural sense

  • In context, Las Posadas refers to the reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s search for a place to stay before Jesus was born, going from “inn” to “inn.”
  • So in everyday English, people often explain it as “The Inns,” a Christmas tradition about seeking shelter and hospitality.

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