Three Kings Day, also known as Epiphany or Día de los Reyes, is celebrated on January 6. It commemorates the visit of the Magi, or Three Wise Men, who followed a star to bring gifts to the infant Jesus. In Spain, Mexico, Puerto Rico and much of Latin America, as well as in Hispanic communities across the United States, it's a major family celebration, especially for children, who receive gifts from the Kings.
History of Three Kings Day
The Gospel of Matthew describes Magi from the East who followed a star to Bethlehem and brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. The Bible doesn't say how many there were or name them, but Christian tradition settled on three kings named Melchior, Caspar and Balthazar.
The Feast of the Epiphany, meaning 'manifestation', has been celebrated since early Christianity. In Western churches, it focuses on the Magi's visit; in many Eastern churches, January 6 also commemorates the baptism of Jesus.
In Spanish-speaking countries, children traditionally leave their shoes out on the night of January 5, sometimes with grass or hay for the Kings' camels, and wake up to gifts. Families share the rosca de reyes, a ring-shaped sweet bread decorated with candied fruit. A small figurine of baby Jesus is hidden inside, and in Mexico, whoever finds it hosts a tamale party on February 2, Candlemas. Spain holds colorful parades called cabalgatas, and Puerto Rico celebrates January 6 as a public holiday.
Why Three Kings Day Matters
Three Kings Day is one of the most important holidays for many Hispanic families, with traditions passed down for generations.
It extends the Christmas season and emphasizes generosity, symbolized by the Magi's gifts.
Learning about the day helps people appreciate the diversity of holiday traditions in the United States and around the world.
How to Celebrate Three Kings Day
- Share a rosca de reyes: find the hidden figurine.
- Leave shoes out: children can leave shoes and hay for the camels.
- Attend a parade: many U.S. cities host Three Kings events.
- Learn the story: read about the Magi's journey.
- Plan for Candlemas: whoever finds the figurine hosts tamales on February 2.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, share a rosca de reyes with coworkers and explain the tradition; whoever finds the figurine might bring treats on February 2. In classrooms, students can learn how Epiphany is celebrated in different countries, make paper crowns or decorate shoeboxes. At home, families can leave shoes out for small gifts, bake or buy a rosca, and share the story of the Magi. Warn children about the hidden figurine before eating.
Fun Facts About Three Kings Day
- Tradition names the kings Melchior, Caspar and Balthazar.
- The rosca de reyes hides a baby Jesus figurine.
- Three Kings Day is a public holiday in Puerto Rico.
Three Kings Day FAQs
When is Three Kings Day?
Three Kings Day is celebrated on January 6.
What is Three Kings Day?
A Christian feast, also called Epiphany or Día de Reyes, commemorating the Magi's visit to the infant Jesus.
What are the names of the Three Kings?
Tradition names them Melchior, Caspar and Balthazar.
What is rosca de reyes?
A ring-shaped sweet bread with a hidden baby Jesus figurine, eaten on Three Kings Day.
Why do children leave shoes out?
So the Three Kings can leave gifts in them overnight.
What happens if you find the figurine?
In Mexico, the finder hosts a tamale party on February 2, Candlemas.