In Mexico the exchange is organized around two dates: the posada, between December 16 and 24, and Christmas Eve. Offices and schools usually exchange at the posada; families on the 24th. Choosing one from the start decides the budget and when to draw.
The exchange in Mexico, date by date
The office posada
Posadas run from December 16 to 24, and many companies hold theirs around those dates or slightly earlier. That's the natural gift day for an office exchange. Draw names at least two weeks before so everyone has time to shop.
Before or after the aguinaldo
Mexico's Federal Labor Law requires the aguinaldo to be paid before December 20, and it must be at least fifteen days' wages.
If the posada comes before that date, some of the group won't have been paid yet when they buy, so set a limit people can afford without it.
Families, on the night of the 24th
Families open gifts on the night of the 24th, after dinner. Until then they sit beside the nativity scene or under the tree. If the family exchange is that night, gifts need to be ready before the cooking starts.
The version with sweets
Many offices and schools play a version with sweets: in the days before, each person leaves anonymous treats for their person, and the giver is revealed at the posada. If you play it, agree on a limit for the treats as well.
If some of the family lives abroad
If some of the family lives in the US, decide early whether their gift gets shipped or bought in Mexico: December shipping is slow and customs can hold parcels. Ordering online for delivery in Mexico is usually faster.
Set up your exchange
No account, nothing to install, free. Enter the names and the date of the posada or Christmas Eve, share one link, and each person sees only who they drew.
