Las inns are one christmas tradition very significant in Mexican culture, and these are carried out in the December 16 to 24. Within them there are important elements, such as bonuseslas sparklerswho come together to illuminate these celebrations, and the snack basketsof which we will tell you below what elements they are made up of.
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Origin of snacks
According to an article in “Mexico Desconocido”, one of the most common versions about the creation of this candy as we know it dates back to 1926, when the Spanish Consuelo Anaya de Pérez and her husband Fernando Pérez García formed the candy company called “Hispanic-Mexican.” The sweets were made by hand and there was a great variety of them.
However, in the 40s, Consuelo and Fernando saw their company shine with success. So they decided to renew it and call it ““The Giralda”. This name was chosen by Consuelo to honor a landscape in southern Spain.
One day, Consuelo decided to make a bran candy, which turned out to be harder than normal, but with excellent flavor. So he called it collation. When distribution began, the snacks became a success and La Giralda, their main producer.
Since then, the snack began to be part of the Mexican holidays and little by little it took root in Christmas.
However, it also has other influences, such as religious and cultural ones.
Religious origins
- Offerings to pilgrims: In colonial times, friars and missionaries offered food and drink to pilgrims who arrived at the missions in search of refuge and protection.
- Food for the needy: The Catholic Church promoted charity and almsgiving during Christmas, especially for the poor and needy.
Cultural influences
- Aztec tradition: The Aztecs celebrated the Huitzilopochtli festival in December, which included the distribution of food and gifts.
- Spanish influence: The Spanish brought with them the tradition of the “merienda” or “colación”, which consisted of a light meal and sweets.
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Why is snacks given in inns?
For this reason, giving creation in the posadas is an expression of generosity before the birth of Jesus, as well as solidarity, charity – sharing with others, especially those in need – and joy that characterizes Mexican Christmas.
Some traditional sweets that are usually distributed apart from the snack, which are originally those sweets, of different textures, colors and shapes – including round and oval, with chocolate, orange, walnut or pine nut or anise fillings – are:
Traditional sweets
- Fritters
- Nougat
- Polvorones
- Joys
- Cocadas
- Wafers
Fruits and other gifts
- Fresh fruits (oranges, tangerines, canes, etc.)
- Nuts (peanuts, almonds, etc.)
- fruit sweets
- small toys
- Bonuses (coins or bills)
CSAS