At a Glance
- Three Kings Day is celebrated on Jan. 6, marking the arrival of the Magi.
- The gifts-gold, frankincense, and myrrh-symbolize wealth, divinity, and mortality.
- The holiday is observed in Spain, Mexico, Latin America, the Caribbean, France, Poland, and Puerto Rico.
- Why it matters: It concludes the 12 days of Christmas and includes traditions like Rosca de Reyes and King Cake.
Three Kings Day, also known as the Feast of Epiphany, marks the moment when the three wise men-Melchior, Caspar, and Balthazar-arrived with gifts for baby Jesus. The holiday falls on the twelfth day of Christmas, celebrated by Roman Catholics on Jan. 6 and by Orthodox Christians on Jan. 19.
When and Where It Is Celebrated
Roman Catholics, Lutherans, Anglicans, and other Christian traditions observe Epiphany on Jan. 6. Orthodox Christian faiths celebrate on Jan. 19. The holiday is widely celebrated in Spanish-speaking countries such as Mexico and Spain, as well as in Latin America, the Caribbean, France, Poland, and among Latino communities in the United States, especially Puerto Rico.
Symbols and Traditions
The Magi followed a bright star to Bethlehem and presented gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Each item carries meaning:
- Gold represents Christ’s royal status.
- Frankincense symbolizes his divinity.
- Myrrh refers to his mortality.
Popular customs include gift-giving, feasting, and enjoying King Cake or Rosca de Reyes.
- King Cake: A twisted ring of bread, often decorated with icing and colored sprinkles, contains a hidden baby Jesus doll.
- Rosca de Reyes: An oval-shaped sweet bread with candied fruits, also hiding a doll.
Children leave shoes or hay for the wise men and camels, and parades are held worldwide, from New York City to Madrid and Uruguay.
| Tradition | Celebration Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Roman Catholic Epiphany | Jan. 6 | Marks arrival of Magi |
| Orthodox Epiphany | Jan. 19 | Celebrated by Orthodox Christians |
Key Takeaways
- Three Kings Day concludes the 12 days of Christmas on Jan. 6.
- The gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh carry symbolic meanings of wealth, divinity, and mortality.
- Traditions like Rosca de Reyes and King Cake are central to celebrations across many cultures.
Three Kings Day remains a vibrant reminder of the Magi’s journey and the spirit of giving that continues to resonate worldwide.
