The Three Kings Celebration, or Epiphany, is a Christian festival on January 6th commemorating the Magi (Three Wise Men) visiting baby Jesus, bringing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh; it’s a major gift-giving day in Spain and Latin America, often with parades (Cabalgatas) on January 5th and special cakes like the Roscón de Reyes, concluding the Twelve Days of Christmas.
Core Traditions
• Date: Annually on January 6th, marking the revelation of Jesus as King.
• Gift-Giving: In many cultures, the Three Kings bring gifts to children, who leave out shoes or boxes with hay.
• Parades (Cabalgatas): On the evening of January 5th, large parades feature floats and costumed kings throwing candy and small gifts.
• Food: A special ring-shaped cake, the Roscón de Reyes, is eaten, often with a hidden figurine; whoever finds it is “King” for the day.
Significance
• Commemoration: Honors the visit of the Magi (Melchior, Caspar, Balthazar) to the newborn Jesus.
• Symbolism of Gifts: Gold (kingship), Frankincense (divinity), Myrrh (mortality/suffering).
• Cultural Importance: Continues the Christmas season for many, especially in Spain and Latin America, often being a national holiday.
Variations
• Timing: Some Orthodox Christians celebrate on January 19th (following the Julian calendar).
• Gifts: While traditionally gifts came on Jan 6th, some families now split them with Christmas Day.
Spanish Department Team wishes you a very happy new year.
¡Feliz Año Nuevo!
