Las Posadas: Just Follow the Flickering Lights

Traditional posadas are presented throughout the Southland from Tuesday to Dec. 24. The churches listed are representative of many other Catholic parishes that also are planning posadas. As times vary from church to church, it is wise to call first if you want to participate. Some parishes are too small to accommodate many visitors. Dress warmly, as most of these events are held outdoors; all are free.

Los Angeles Photography Center, 412 S. Park View St. (213) 383-7342.

Today and Sunday, 8 p.m.

The celebration starts with a candlelight procession around the neighborhood near MacArthur Park. Following, a dramatic presentation blending elements of Las Posadas and Una Pastorela will unfold against the backdrop of old MGM sets behind the center. The event is a joint project with Central City Action Committee. Ample free parking at the back of the center.

Olvera Street, near Sunset Boulevard and Alameda Street, (213) 687-4344.

Tuesday to Dec. 24, 7-9 p.m.

Since the late 1930s the merchants of Olvera Street have celebrated Las Posadas. The festivities begin around 7 p.m. At 8 p.m. merchants dressed as townspeople go from shop to shop singing and requesting lodging. The event concludes with a pinata for the children.

Mission San Gabriel, 537 W. Mission Drive, San Gabriel (818) 282-5191.

Tuesday to Dec. 24, 7 p.m.

Posadas are held in the sanctuary of the old mission nightly, followed by a pinata for the children.

Dolores Mission, 171 W. Gless St. (between 1st and 3rd streets), (213) 262-2397.

Tuesday to Dec. 24, Mass at 6 p.m.; posadas following at 6:30.

Each night the parishioners accompanied by the church choir will go to the nearby housing projects, Aliso Village and Pico Gardens, stopping at several apartments to request lodging. At the third, which will be different each night, they will be received. Visitors should park at the church and stay with the group.

Andres Pico Adobe, 10940 Sepulveda Blvd., Mission Hills, (818) 365-7810.

Monday, 7:30 p.m.

Posadas will be performed by children of Santa Rosa Catholic School of San Fernando. Luminarias will light the garden and the route of the procession. Following the posada, which stops at various gates of the patio and front door, there will be a pinata, chocolate and pan dulce will be served in the patio. Candles are $1 donation.

Olivas Adobe, 4200 Olivas Park Drive, Ventura, (805) 644-4346.

Next Saturday, 7-9 p.m.

Take the Victoria Street off-ramp from the Ventura Freeway. Go under the freeway to Olivas Park Drive. Turn right. Park at Olivas Park Golf Course and take the shuttle bus to the adobe.

The posadas here will be sung in Spanish and accompanied by musicians. The procession wends its way through the memorial grove and gardens, which will be illuminated with about 200 luminarias . The two-story Monterrey-style adobe is located in the country, providing a lovely setting for the posada. Traditional refreshments-- pan dulce , sweet tamales and chocolate flavored with cinnamon will be served.

Our Lady of the Pillar Catholic Church, 1622 West 6th Street, Santa Ana, (714) 543-1700.

Tuesday to Dec. 24.

Posadas will follow 7 o’clock Mass, starting about 7:30. A procession of children and the choir will progress through the church. Afterwards, there will be a pinata in the parish hall.

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 5021 W. 16th St. at Euclid, Santa Ana, (714) 638-4533.

Tuesday to Dec. 24.

Posadas will follow the evening service at 6 p.m. The parish children will form a procession around the church. A pinata and refreshments follow.

San Felipe de Jesus Catholic Church, 26010 Domingo, at the corner of Domingo and Sepulveda, Capistrano Beach (about 1 1/2 miles from Mission San Juan Capistrano), (714) 661-7500.

Tuesday to Dec. 24, around 7 p.m.

A simple posada, involving children and parents, will be held nightly in the church. Cinnamon tea and pan dulce afterward.