Las Posadas has been a part of Olvera Street since its founding in 1930. Reenacting the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem with traditional songs,colorful costumes, and vibrant music brings one of the oldest Christmas stories to life. While the event is rooted in Christian and Catholic traditions, all are welcome to participate. This is a nine night festival, ending on Christmas Eve with a live Mary and Joseph, honoring the birth of Jesus.

Each night the crowd gathers as the pastores, or shepherds, are led by the angel to ask for shelter at one of the shops on Olvera Street.  Initially turned away, Mary and Joseph are finally given shelter and songs of celebration can be heard up and down Olvera Street. The procession starts and ends at the Avila Adobe, the oldest house in Los Angeles.  At the end, each visitor is given a cup of hot champurrado and a piece of delicious pan dulce, or sweet bread.