Three Kings’ Day, also known as the Epiphany or Dia de los Reyes, is a Christian holiday celebrated on January 6th, commemorating the visit of the Magi to the newly born Jesus. The celebration of our Messiah has evolved over centuries, building diverse cultural traditions across the globe. The Three Kings’ Day narrative is found in the Gospel of Matthew, which shares the journey of the three wise men-Melchior, Casper, and Balthazar-following a star to Bethlehem to offer gifts to the newborn Messiah. The Magi’s journey symbolizes the acknowledgment of Jesus’s kingship and Holiness.
We celebrate this beautiful event with many cultural traditions. In many Latin American countries, like Mexico, the Rosca de Reyes, a sweet bread ring with hidden small figurines representing the baby Jesus, is a main point of Dia de los Reyes. When one of the figurines is found, it signifies that a Candlemas celebration must be hosted. Candlemas is held on February 2nd to commemorate when Mary went to the temple in Jerusalem and presented Jesus to God.
In Spain and Latin America, people would dress up in costumes and distribute candy to children. Festivals and parades would be hosted to celebrate and give gifts to the children. These children would leave their shoes out hoping for the three kings to leave gifts. These traditions display unity and love which is what Jesus was put on earth to do.
However, modern celebrations of the Epiphany have become less festive and more simplified. Although many families still do the Rosca, a lesser number of children leave their shoes out for gifts. Instead, families have shifted their focus to gift exchanges and food. The nativity scene remains a common display in many schools and churches. These more simple traditions display faith and generosity more than unity.
To gain insight into how children perceive this holiday today, a few freshmen were asked about their family practices. Paris Martinez shared, “My family only does the rosca; we don’t do any other traditions.” Another student, Johannie Jimenez stated, “In my family, Christmas and Dia de los Reyes are equally as important.” Lastly, Allison Lazzar reminisced, “As a kid, I was excited to cut the Rosca and look for the babies.” Even in today’s simpler celebrations, the joy and anticipation surrounding the traditions connect younger generations to their cultural heritage.
Although Three Kings’ Day is celebrated worldwide, not many children seem to incorporate the root of this holiday. It is important to build a bridge between modern traditions and the origins to honor the legacy of such a unifying and beautiful holiday.
Nick Patel • Feb 4, 2025 at 12:10 pm
This is such a well written article. Learning how the same belief is celebrated in so many wonderful ways, opened my eyes to teaching our youth the true roots to our culture, so it’s not forgotten over time.
Melanie • Feb 4, 2025 at 11:29 am
so interesting
Melanie • Feb 4, 2025 at 11:28 am
wow your so smart chels
Johannie Jimenez • Feb 4, 2025 at 11:05 am
w reporter!!!