Nativity Scenes in Teabo: Creativity and Ingenuity Turned Tradition
If you're going to be in Yucatán and are looking to do something unique on Christmas Eve, we have a truly special suggestion for you.
Teabo is a small town located south of the state, not far from the Magical Town of Maní. For just over 10 years, a beautiful tradition has taken root here. Each December 24, as night falls, families in the community open their doors, inviting both locals and visitors to step inside and admire the nativity scenes they’ve lovingly created.
The nativity scenes of Teabo, Yucatán
In case you’re not familiar, nativity scenes (in Spanish called pesebres or nacimientos) depict the birth of Jesus Christ. Traditionally, these scenes feature the Holy Family (the Virgin Mary, Saint Joseph, and Baby Jesus) along with shepherds, angels, farm animals, and of course, the Three Wise Men. However, in Teabo, these scenes often come with a creative twist.
Months in advance, each family starts planning the theme or style of their nativity scene. They carefully decide where to place Baby Jesus and what foods, sweets, or drinks they’ll offer visitors. They also take into account the resources (both human and financial) they have available to bring their small works of art to life, each one created within their means.
Indeed, the presentation of nativity scenes in Teabo, right before the Christmas Eve celebrations, is a true display of folk art. Here, each family showcases their creativity and ingenuity, blending it with faith and love. These nativity scenes are made as an offering to Baby Jesus, and it brings the families great joy to welcome visitors to see them.
How to visit the nativity scene exhibition in Teabo, Yucatán
If you’re up for the adventure, make sure to wear comfortable shoes and arrive early so you can visit as many nativity scenes as possible. It’s also a good idea to come hungry, as the families graciously offer sweets and drinks to visitors as a thank you for stopping by. If you’re lucky, you might get to try some seasonal treats like cocoyol, papaya, pumpkin, or sweet potato, along with cookies, zunchos (marshmallows), buñuelos, cake, tacos, or spaghetti, among many other options.
Wandering through the streets of Teabo with your family, going house to house from 7 pm until nearly midnight, is a true delight for the eyes, ears, and heart. Each nativity scene has its charm. The creativity in the different themes ranges from traditional (with traditional Maya huano houses) to the most fantastical ideas; in previous years, Baby Jesus has rested in Encanto’s Casa Madrigal, surrounded by characters from the animated film, or at the foot of a replica of the Chichén Itzá pyramid, covered in metallic paper. Each family presents their nativity scene with music, mostly carols and Christmas songs. All of this is done with the simple goal of showcasing each family’s creativity and gratitude toward Baby Jesus, who is the center of attention in every scene.
This cherished tradition continues to be passed down (and we hope it remains for many years to come) as a beautiful way to spend Christmas Eve. The community of Teabo generously shares whatever they have, straight from the heart: in this season of gratitude, families give their love with joy and kindness.
Photography by Ely Chavarrea, for its use in Yucatán Today.
First published in Yucatán Today print and digital magazine no. 444, in December 2024.
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