16
Dec '24
A Honduran Christmas: Family, Food, and Traditions
16
Dec '24
Christmas in Honduras is more than just decorations, food, and fireworks. It’s about family, love, and reflecting on the blessings we’ve received throughout the year. Whether it’s through a humble painted tree, a plate of homemade tamales, or a warm glass of rompope, these traditions remind us of the joy of being together and the beauty of a culture that values simplicity, creativity, and community.
The Humble Christmas Tree
Ms. Osorio, our Principal, fondly remembers her childhood when her family couldn’t afford fancy Christmas decorations. Like many Honduran households of the time, they would find a dry tree branch, paint it white with lime power and water, and decorate it with lights. It wasn’t about grandeur—it was a simple expression of the joy of Christmas.
Even today, this tradition continues, particularly among families with limited resources. Now, some people even sell these handmade trees, turning them into a symbol of nostalgia and resourcefulness. They remind us of simpler times and provide a joyful alternative in a season often dominated by consumerism.
Torrejas: A Sweet Tradition
One of the most beloved Christmas desserts in Honduras is torrejas. This sweet dish is made from slices of bread fried then soaked in a syrup made with panela (unrefined cane sugar), cinnamon, and cloves, to golden perfection. Ms. Eduvijes, one of our Jubilee staff members, has a special tradition of making the bread from scratch for her torrejas.
She recalls how she’s been doing this for years for her children, friends, and coworkers. Every Christmas, she shares her torrejas with the Jubilee staff, showing not just her culinary talent but her heart for giving. She reminds us that Christmas is about sharing what we have with love and generosity.
Rompope: A Honduran Classic
No Honduran Christmas gathering is complete without rompope, a creamy eggnog-like drink that can be enjoyed with or without alcohol. Ms. Keyla shares a heartwarming story about her family tradition. Every year, her father eagerly awaits her return to their hometown of Villa de San Francisco, just outside Tegucigalpa, so they can share a cold glass of rompope.
Ms. Keyla prepares it with care, and non alcohol, pouring her love for her family into every batch. For her, it’s not just a drink; it’s a way to connect with her loved ones and keep their traditions alive.
Tamales: The Flavor of Family
Ask any Honduran, and they’ll tell you their family makes the best tamales. Ms. Thare lights up when she talks about her grandmother’s tamales, which are truly something special. They are made with two types of masa (corn dough)—one seasoned with achiote for its red color and the other white with savory spices. Inside, they’re filled with rice, chicken or pork, chickpeas, raisins, olives, peas, and potatoes, all wrapped in banana leaves.
For Ms. Thare, arriving at her grandmother’s home during Christmas is a feast for the senses. The smell of freshly steamed tamales fills the house, instantly reminding her of family, love, and the joy of the season.
Watch our recent video with the most popular Hondurans traditions.
Fireworks and Burning the Old Year
Hondurans also love celebrating with fireworks! On New Year’s Eve, a unique tradition takes center stage: the burning of años viejos. These are life-sized dolls made from old clothes and stuffed with firecrackers, representing the “bad things” from the previous year. At midnight, they are set on fire, symbolizing a fresh start and hope for a better year ahead.
This tradition is celebrated across the country, bringing neighbors together for a moment of shared joy, reflection, and renewal.
Estrenos: New Clothes, New Beginnings
A much-loved Christmas tradition in Honduras is wearing estrenos, or new clothes, to celebrate the season. Children especially look forward to this, as it’s a chance to feel special and start the season fresh. While this custom might seem simple, it’s a beautiful expression of joy and renewal, as families come together to give thanks for the blessings of the year.
But as beautiful as these traditions are, they are not the true reason for the season. Christmas isn’t about trees, lights, or even the delicious meals we share. It’s about Jesus—His birth, His life, and the salvation He brings. As Christians, we are called to look beyond the festivities and reflect deeply on the meaning of this season. We must remember the greatest gift ever given to humanity: the Son of God, born in a humble manger to bring hope, peace, and redemption to the world.
Ms. Osorio and her family have a powerful tradition that embodies this focus on Jesus. On Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, just before the clock strikes midnight, her family gathers in prayer. They kneel together, lifting their voices in thanksgiving and worship. They cry out to God, praising Him for His love and for the sacrifice of sending His only Son to save us. It’s a sacred moment of humility and gratitude, a reminder that while the world around us celebrates with noise and lights, the heart of this season is found in quiet reverence before our Savior.
As we approach Christmas and the New Year, let’s take a moment to do the same. Let us kneel before the Lord in prayer, thanking Him for His boundless love and mercy. Let’s ask Him to prepare our hearts not just for the season but for His return. Every day of our lives should reflect the joy and hope of His coming, not just during Christmas but throughout the year.
As we celebrate, may the words of Luke 2:14 echo in our hearts: “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men.” May our prayers and actions honor the One who gave everything for us, and may this season remind us that Jesus is the true light of the world.
