The Guadalajara Reporter

In Mexico, Epiphany means reaffirming Christian principles, toys & rosca de reyes

More ancient than the celebration of Christmas itself, the feast of Epiphany is a Christian holiday commemorating divine power as manifested in three significant New Testament events: the baptism of Jesus, the adoration of the Magi and the miracle at Cana.

It is celebrated 13 days after Christmas on January 6. Hence Anglo references to the preceding eve as Twelfth Night and the every-popular English carol The “Twelve Days of Christmas.” In Mexico the holiday is called Dia de los Tres Reyes (Three Kings Day). Echoing the arrival in Bethlehem of wisemen bearing gold, frankincense and myrrh as gifts for the Christ Child, children anticipate waking up January 6 to find treasures left during the night by the Reyes Magos (Magi).

This popular Mexican holiday has its roots in the colonial era. Early Spanish missionaries saw a fundamental connection between the awakening the native population to the Christian faith and the epiphany of the Magi. Festivities surrounding January 6 are still celebrated with special fervor in many of Mexico’s indigenous communities.

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