Holidays at Olvera Street
Los Angeles, CA
Olvera Street’s nine-night Las Posadas reenacts Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem with candlelit processions, piñatas, champurrado, and pan dulce — a treasured Los Angeles tradition since 1930.
Olvera Street’s nine-night Las Posadas reenacts Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem with candlelit processions, piñatas, champurrado, and pan dulce — a treasured Los Angeles tradition since 1930.
Las Posadas on Olvera Street is one of Los Angeles’s oldest and most beloved cultural holiday traditions, celebrated continuously since 1930 at the birthplace of the city. The nine-night celebration runs from December 16 through December 24, reenacting Mary and Joseph’s journey to find shelter.
Each evening features a candlelit procession down historic Olvera Street, with participants stopping at storefronts to sing traditional songs asking for shelter. The children’s piñata at 6:30 p.m. is the lively launch of each evening — candy is thrown for all to catch.
Festivities also include warm champurrado, freshly baked pan dulce, traditional mariachi and folk music, and a deeply community atmosphere. While rooted in Christian and Catholic traditions, Las Posadas warmly welcomes participants of every background.
Yes — the procession, piñata, and music are all free to attend. Food, drink, and gifts at the Olvera Street vendors are paid.
Las Posadas runs for nine consecutive nights, from December 16 through December 24 each year. Each evening kicks off with the children’s piñata at 6:30 p.m., followed by the candlelit procession.
Not at all — while Las Posadas is rooted in Christian and Catholic traditions, the celebration warmly welcomes participants of every background. It’s a community celebration of the season.
Use the paid lot at Union Station across Alameda Street — it’s the most convenient option. Metro Red and Purple Lines also stop at Union Station, making transit the easiest way to arrive.
Very — the children’s piñata at 6:30 p.m. is a joyful kid-centered moment, with candy thrown for all to catch. The procession is short and walkable, and the festive atmosphere keeps young children engaged.
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