The city of Baldwin Park invites the community to its annual Posada celebration on Friday, featuring seasonal religious traditions and a celebration with Posada candy bags, live entertainment and a festive piñata raffle.
The evening will begin with Mass at 6:30 p.m. at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 3883 Baldwin Park Blvd., followed by a candlelit procession at 8 p.m. destined for Morgan Park at 4100 Baldwin Park Blvd. for the main celebration. During the festivities at the park, there will be complimentary tamales and ponche, as well as cultural costumes and songs.
“The Posada celebration is one of Baldwin Park’s most meaningful moments to come together as a predominantly Hispanic city,” Baldwin Park Mayor Alejandra Avila said in a statement. “More than just a holiday event, it connects our community through shared culture and faith, reminding us of the reason for the season.”
The Posada tradition commemorates Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter before the birth of Jesus. The city has continued to celebrate Posada for over two decades, recognizing the Latinx community, which makes up approximately 75% of Baldwin Park’s population.
The event is free and open to the public. Attendees who wish to join the celebration without participating in the procession are encouraged to meet directly at Morgan Park at 8 p.m.
The Posada is made possible through the collaborative efforts of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church and local community organizations, including the Julia McNeill Senior Center, the Baldwin Park Recreation and Community Services Commission and youth clubs. Volunteers of all ages, from teens to seniors, contribute to this inclusive celebration, which serves as a space for cultural exchange and strengthening community bonds, organizers said.
For more information about the Posada celebration, contact the City of Baldwin Park at 626-813-5245, Ext. 311.
