Three Kings Day 2024: January 6th, the twelfth day of Christmas, is observed as Three Kings Day. ‘El Dia de los Reyes’, which is predominantly observed in Europe, Spain, and Latin America, commemorates the Three Wise Men’s glorification of the infant Jesus.
The History of Three Kings Day
Santa Claus is not as well-liked in Mexico and numerous other Latin American nations as he is in the United States. In contrast, the purveyors of gifts are the Three Wise Men, who deposit gifts in or near the footwear of young children. Epiphany is an alternative term for this occasion, which originated in the fourth century. In remembrance of the Three Wise Men and commemoration of the occasion of Jesus’ baptism, a lavish feast would be celebrated on this day.
Many believe that mysterious events transpired before the birth of Jesus, with the star’s apparition in Bethlehem being arguably the most significant. Just before Jesus’s arrival, this new star became visible in the evening sky. To show reverence to Christ, three wise men, or Magi, by the names of Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar, embarked on an extensive journey. They carried exquisite offerings of myrrh, frankincense, and gold with them.
Three Kings Day, also known as El Dia de Reyes, continues to be a significant Catholic holiday. In addition to the exchange of gifts, a holiday-specific culinary delight is also enjoyed. This holiday delicacy, referred to as Rosca de Reyes (King’s Cake), is a symbolic pastry. Circular in shape to represent the crown of a monarch, this delectable bread conceals a pleasant surprise. A miniature plastic figurine depicting the infant Jesus is encased within. Upon discovering this token, whoever is obligated to throw a celebration in observance of Candlemas Day (Dia de la Candelaria), which takes place annually on February 2nd,
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FAQs on Three Kings Day
What is the significance of Three Kings Day?
Three Kings Day signifies the conclusion of the Christmas season and is based on the account of the Three Wise Men presenting Jesus Christ with gifts.
What does a Three Kings Day meal consist of?
Three Kings Day is traditionally observed with a soup or salad for an entrée, picadillo beef with rice and beans (though some families substitute corn or peas for the beans), and a King’s cake for dessert.
Is the Three Kings’ Day a Jewish observance?
Eastern Christianity and Catholicism observe Three Kings Day predominantly in Europe, Latin America, and Spain.
Day of the Three Kings Activities
Purchase a “Rosca de Reyes.”
The King Cake tradition is prevalent throughout South America, including New Orleans, and recipes for it are readily available online. Consider a delectable cake adorned with a syrupy cinnamon and cinnamon crust, adorned with an assortment of fillings that reflect your level of indulgence.
Consult the Bible
Before you celebrate a Christian festival, you might as well read the gospel upon which it is all built. Epiphany, or the twelfth night, signifies Jesus Christ’s baptism by John the Baptist. The term “Epiphany,” which is synonymous with “manifestation,” commemorates the manifestation of God in the person of Jesus Christ. Commence with Matthew 2:11 and observe the subsequent events.
Immerse yourself in the frigid water.
A traditional Three Kings swim in the Vltava River takes place in Prague. Individuals donning speedos, with some donning crowns, leap from a ship into the water. They then consume mulled wine and delectable, cozy Czech treats.
Five facts regarding Three Kings Day
It has several names.
Epiphany, Little Christmas, Theophany, Baptism of Jesus, Denha, and Dia de Los Reyes are alternative names for Three Kings Day.
Traditional cakes
In some cultures, a plastic baby figurine is baked inside Rosca de Reyes, which are miniature ring-shaped cakes that symbolize infant Jesus.
There might have been Magi over three.
The biblical account does not provide information regarding the quantity or identity of the Magi who paid a visit to the infant Jesus.
Jesus was bestowed with valuable presents.
Jesus received offerings consisting of frankincense oil, resin myrrh, and gold, all of which held symbolic significance.
Shoe-filled treats
Like Christmas stockings, children pack treats into their “For the Three Wise Men’s Camels” shoes then discard them.
THREE KINGS DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | January 6 | Saturday |
| 2025 | January 6 | Monday |
| 2026 | January 6 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | January 6 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | January 6 | Thursday |
