Columbia, CA…Las Posadas is a Spanish tradition that re-enacts the biblical story of Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter in Bethlehem on the original Christmas Eve. The people of Columbia put on their own version of Las Posadas each December–with a distinctive 1850s flavor. This year it’s the 34th annual!

Columbia State Historic Park is decorated for the Christmas season with traditional Christmas boughs and wreaths, and the ambiance is enhanced with luminaries on Main Street, lighting the way for the evening procession. The cast of characters includes Mary riding on a donkey led by Joseph, angels carrying lanterns, the Wise Men, tax collector, innkeeper, gold miners as shepherds, townspeople in 1850s costume, and of course, the baby Jesus. The Mirth & Glee Carolers, in period costume, provide music for the procession, and on-lookers participate also in this touching Columbia Christmas tradition–singing Christmas carols by candlelight. This free event for the whole family is sponsored by the Columbia Chamber of Commerce on Sunday, December 11th at 5:30 p.m. For more information, call 532-6604 or visit www.columbiacalifornia.com.