The “Día de Los Reyes” (Three Wise Men - also known as Epiphany) is celebrated on January 6 or the closest Sunday to January 6 to honor the Three Wise Men. This holiday represents the day the Three Wise Men gave gifts to Jesus, and the day closes the Christmas festivities. It’s also the day the people of Mexico exchange gifts!
During “Día de Los Reyes”, Mexicans serve Rosca de Reyes, or King’s Cake. “Rosca” means wreath and “reyes” means kings. The Rosca de Reyes has an oval shape to symbolize a crown and has a small doll inside, which represents baby Jesus. The doll figure symbolizes the hiding of the infant Jesus from King Herod’s troops. Traditionally, roscas are adorned with dried and candied fruits to symbolize the many jewels that a crown would have. The person who gets the slice with the doll must host a party on “Día de la Candelaria” in February.
At Our Lady Queen of Peace, the “Dia de Reyes” is also the occasion to receive the “Three Wise Men” during our Sunday Masses, and give presents to the children of our parish.