January 6

Day of Los Reyes

Celebrate the vibrant culture and traditions of Day of Los Reyes with colorful parades, traditional food, and lively music!

Yearly Date

January 6

Observed in

Uruguay

Introduction

Get ready to celebrate the vibrant and festive Day of Los Reyes on January 6! Also known as Three Kings' Day or Dia de Los Tres Reyes Magos, this holiday is a beloved tradition in many Spanish-speaking countries. It commemorates the biblical story of the three wise men who brought gifts to baby Jesus, and is celebrated with parades, feasts, and gift-giving. But did you know that in some cultures, children leave their shoes out on the eve of the holiday for the three kings to fill with presents? So get your shoes ready and let's join in on this joyous celebration!

Day of Los Reyes Timeline

4th Century

Three Wise Men Recognition

The Three Wise Men, also known as the Magi, were first acknowledged as part of the nativity story in the 4th century, starting this tradition.

14th Century

Feast of the Epiphany

By the 14th century, the Feast of the Epiphany was widely celebrated across Europe, with the focus on the journey of the Three Wise Men.

1492

Tradition Spreads to Americas

After Christopher Columbus' journey to the Americas, Spanish cultural traditions, including the celebration of the Day of Los Reyes, began to take root.

1800s

Rosca de Reyes Origination

The Rosca de Reyes (King's Ring), a circular cake symbolizing a king's crown, became a central part of the Day of Los Reyes tradition during the 1800s.

1950s

Day of Los Reyes Parades

The tradition of organizing parades and festivals to celebrate the Day of Los Reyes emerged in the mid-20th century, particularly in Mexico and Spain.

Present Day

Global Celebration

Today, the Day of Los Reyes is celebrated globally, particularly among Hispanic communities, marking the end of the 12 days of Christmas.

How to Celebrate Day of Los Reyes

1 Host a Three Kings Day party

Invite friends and family over to celebrate Three Kings Day with traditional food, music, and decorations. This is a great way to learn about and honor this holiday.

2 Make a Three Kings Day craft

Get creative and make a craft inspired by the Three Kings, such as a paper crown or a nativity scene. It's a fun activity for kids and adults alike.

3 Enjoy a traditional Rosca de Reyes

It wouldn't be Three Kings Day without the traditional sweet bread known as Rosca de Reyes. Gather your loved ones and enjoy this delicious treat together.

4 Attend a Three Kings Day parade

Many cities and towns host parades to celebrate Three Kings Day. Check your local community events to see if there is one happening near you.

5 Donate to a charity in honor of the Three Kings

In the spirit of giving, consider making a donation to a charity that helps children or families in need. This is a great way to honor the Three Kings and spread joy on this special day.

Why We Love Day of Los Reyes

It is a celebration of the Three Kings

Day of Los Reyes, or Epiphany, commemorates the day when the Three Wise Men visited baby Jesus and presented him with gifts. This holiday celebrates an important moment in Christian history and reminds us of the true meaning of Christmas.

It is a cultural tradition

In many Hispanic countries, Day of Los Reyes is celebrated with parades, colorful decorations, and special foods like Rosca de Reyes. It is a time for families to come together and honor their cultural heritage while creating new memories.

There are fun traditions associated with this holiday

One popular tradition on Day of Los Reyes is leaving shoes out on the night before for the Three Kings to fill with presents. Children also write letters to the Kings asking for gifts, and some families even have a visit from costumed actors portraying the Three Kings.