Three Kings Day
Discover the rich traditions and cultural significance of Three Kings Day in our latest exploration of Spanish customs. As enthusiasts of Houston Spanish language learning seek immersive experiences, understanding celebrations like Three Kings Day becomes invaluable. Join us as we delve into the festivities, offering insights and recommendations for those eager to learn in Spanish language Houston style, including finding the perfect Houston Spanish class near me.
Christmas and New Year’s Eve festivities in Mexico don’t end on January 1st, but on the 6th. This day is known as Three Kings Day. In the Catholic Bible, it says that 13 days after the baby Jesus was born, he was visited by three wise men: Melchor, Gaspar, and Baltazar who brought him offerings of gold, Frankincense, and myrrh.
This celebration dates back to colonial times. This celebration has even been found in Spain’s history. But what is its meaning and origin? Learn more about this holiday and its significance in Spanish culture.
The current tradition takes place the night before, on January 5th. Children take their letter that has been left in a shoe next to the Christmas tree, and tie it to a balloon that is released outdoors. These letters ask for the gifts they want. The children go to sleep and the next day, January 6th, they wake up to the surprises the wise men brought them under the Christmas tree. Later the same day, the family gathers to share an ellipse-shaped sweet bread known as Rosca de Reyes.
This bread has its origins in the Middle Ages (14th century) in countries such as France and Spain and shortly after that, arrived in Mexico during the conquest.
Depending on the region, this bread may have different ingredients, but in general, strips of colored “ate”, red, yellow and green, are placed on top; as well as figs and sugar crusts.
Hidden inside this bread are several plastic or ceramic small figures in the shape of the baby Jesus. They symbolize when he had to be hidden from King Herod, who wanted to kill him for being designated as the King of the Jews and the only one who could take away his power.
Tradition says that if you find the small figure, you will be lucky for the rest of the year and that you will also become the godfather or godmother of it. You will dress it and prepare it for February 2nd, “Dia de la Candelaria”, where a scale figure of Jesus is brought to church to be blessed. In addition, the godfather or godmother will have to distribute tamales and atole to family members in celebration of the Presentation and blessing of the baby Jesus. This occurs in the Temple and celebration of the Purification of the Virgin Mary, 40 days after the birth of Christ.
The day of the Candelaria is the end of the Christmas celebrations in Mexico. Even though it is a bit long, it is filled with a lot of meaning, tradition, and flavor.
Discover the rich traditions of Three Kings Day and immerse yourself in Spanish culture by signing up for Houston spanish language classes today. Expand your knowledge and understanding of this vibrant holiday while mastering a new language. Start your journey to fluency and cultural appreciation now!
