The devil is a major character in Mexico’s Christmas festivities. This scene, which is taller than me, occupies a place of honor in the jardin- across from the traditional creche scene- the one with Mary, Joseph, Jesus, and the elephants….

Lucifer is the star of the pastorela, a Latin American version of a medieval miracle play, traditionally performed at Christmas. It involves shepherds on their way to see baby Jesus and devils and angels trying to direct things in often comedic ways.

Knowing this, makes the sight of children singing Christmas carols with devil horns a little less jarring.