Three Kings Day Tradition, Activities & Celebration

Three Kings Day (or El Día de los Reyes in Spanish) is a major holiday in many parts of the world including Latin America, Europe, and countries with strong Catholic traditions like Mexico and the Philippines. Started out as a religious observance, Three Kings Day has evolved (much like Christmas) into a mainstream holiday. However, this occasion is still mostly celebrated by Roman Catholics. This Q&A shares key facts about Three Kings Day tradition, activities, and celebration.

1. What is Three Kings Day?
A: This is a major Catholic holiday, established to commemorate the visitation of the Three Kings (alternatively Three Wise Men or the Magi) to Baby Jesus. During Three Kings Day celebration, people take part in a variety of fun activities ranging from gift giving to mass parades. In some countries, this day is one of the year's most important holidays. Three Kings' Day is officially known as the Feast of the Epiphany.

2. When is Three Kings Day?
A: The special occasion is celebrated on January 6. Orthodox churches observe Three Kings Day on a different date. This holiday generally marks the conclusion of the Christmas season.

3. How is Three Kings Day celebrated?
A: Three Kings Day celebration varies by country and locale. Popular activities include costume parades, biblical reenactments, gift giving (to children), and consumption of festive cakes/sweets. This holiday is also considered an auspicious day to conduct key religious rites such as house blessing.

4. What is a king cake?
A: It is a festive cake, made particularly for Three Kings Day. What makes this cake special is the fact that the baker will place a commemorative figurine somewhere in the cake. The first person to find the object usually wins a prize.

5. Is Three Kings Day a major event in the U.S.?
A: The occasion is relatively obscure in the U.S., though many in the Hispanic and Filipino communities still observe it.