Hispanics United for Perry (HUP) is once again inviting the public to take part in a traditional Christmas celebration, as they host the annual Las Posadas event.

Las Posadas literally translates as “the inns,” or “the lodgings,” and the celebration recognizes the struggle Mary and Joseph had in finding a place to stay when giving birth to Jesus. The celebration is observed in many places in the United States and throughout Latin America, and the Perry event will take place Thursday. The festivities will start at 6 p.m. with an ecumenical service at First Christian Church, which will be conducted in both English and Spanish.

Following the service, attendees will be given a candle and song book, and make their way down 2nd Street. The group will be divided between outside and inside singers, with the former asking for shelter for Mary and Joseph, and the latter saying there’s no room. The procession will stop at several locations before finally ending at First United Methodist Church, where they will finally be welcomed in.

At the church, there will be crafts, dancers, and music, as well as a free-will donation dinner. All proceeds will benefit the HUP scholarship fund.