In Mexico, during the nine days before Christmas people visit their (1) friends houses in the evenings, carrying (2)lighted candles. They (3)sing carols and knock at the door. At (4) first they are not allowed in. This is one of the customs of the posada! Then they explain they are MARY AND Joseph, (5) parents of the Christchild. They (6) are welcomed warmly. In many European countries children receive (7)presents from St.Nicolas on the 6th of December. In the Netherlands he arrives in Amsterdam by (8) boat with his servant Black Peter, who carries a (9)sack to take away (10)any children who have been naughty. He brings presents for (11)good children. In many ports of Spain and South America it isn’t father Christmas or St. Nicolas who (12)brings the presents, but Three Kings or Three Wise men, on the (13)eve of the 6th of January. In Madrid there is a (14)parade in the streets of the Three Kings riding their camels. This commemorates the visit of Melchoir, Caspar and Balthuzar to the baby Jesus in Bethlehem, with (15)their gifts of (16)gold and frankincense as described in the (17)Bible.
