Christians from Spanish-speaking countries celebrate el 6 de enero, also known as Three King’s Day. Jesus was born on December 25^th. The Three Kings traveled to Bethlehem, following a bright star, to bring him gifts. They brought Jesus gold, myrrh, and incense. The Kings, sometimes called The Three Wise Men, traveled for 12 days, so for many Christian people, the Christmas season does not end until January 6^th. This holiday is also known as Epiphany.

To celebrate, Christian children write wish lists for the Three Kings and put them in boxes or shoes under their bed or outside their home to let the Kings know how many kids live there. For kids that are not well-behaved, the Three Kings leave coal. For kids that are well-behaved, the Three Kings leave presents. Children leave hay or grass out as well for Kings’ steeds. As part of the tradition, adults and children eat a dessert called rosca de reyes. This sweet bread has dried or candied fruit on top and is in the shape of a wreath. It symbolizes the crown of the Kings. It is also a tradition in some countries to hide a small plastic doll that resembles baby Jesus inside the cake. Whoever gets the piece of bread with the baby Jesus will be the host of the party on Fat Tuesday/Mardi Gras, which occurs during Carnival before lent begins. Sometimes, children wear crowns at dinnertime to represent the Three Kings. Typical meals range by country and region.

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