Dia De Los Reyes Traditions: Four Fun Ways Latinos Can Celebrate

It’s the first week of January, and another (big) reason for revelry awaits! Yes, El Día de Los Reyes Magos aka the Three Kings’ Day falls on January 6. While the festival calls for gaiety with family and friends, what’s important to know is that there are indeed lots you can do, if you’re a true-blue Latino with an eye for the good times! Here are four fun ways to celebrate. You may thank us later!

Here's a peek into the unmissable traditions...

1) Gifts: Gift-giving is an integral part of Three Kings’ Day and one of the best ways to usher in the glorious day. Children usually place their old shoes out before bedtime on the night of Jan. 5 in the hopes of getting them filled with goodies. The next morning, the shoes are filled with toys and gifts from the Three Kings.

2) A happy and hearty meal: Nothing compares to the joy of eating a sumptuous meal with family and friends. So, what better time than the Three Kings’ Day to dig into delectable cuisines? Some of the ideal dishes to add to the menu include a marinated pork roast, tamales, and Abuelita brand hot chocolate.

3) Revelry at its best: Celebrations of Three Kings’ Day vary across different communities. Some communities host parades, while Disneyland puts on a three-day celebration. For instance, in Sacramento, there are a few Three Kings’ Day celebrations, while California celebrates the day with gusto.

4) Bite into the Rosca de Reyes (Three Kings Bread): Rosca de Reyes is a holiday bread in keeping with the vibe of the Three Kings’ Day. The bread is traditionally baked in the round, symbolic of a king’s crown. Baked within the folds of bread is a clay or porcelain baby Jesus figurine. And, well, there's a catch: The one who finds the toy must then play host tp the rest of the family on Día de la Candelaria, or the Day of the Candles, Feb. 2. Exciting? Oh yes!

1) Three Kings' Day at Disney California Adventure Park

This outing might not spell great news to your wallet, but is worth the indulgence. The Disneyland’s Three Kings’ Day is usually filled with fun activities, and there’s always something for everyone in the family. If you’re getting a toddler along, rest assured they are going to have a blast making a splash on the canvas— by colouring themed pictures or designing their own custom crown with sparkling “jewels.”

When: Jan. 3 - Jan. 8

Where: Paradise Gardens Park, Disney California Adventure Park, 1313 Disneyland Dr., Anaheim Ca.

Cost: Single day prices vary, two-day passes from $105 per day, three-day passes from $93.34, four-day passes from $76.25, five-day passes from $64.00. Children under three are free.

2) Three Kings' Day Party

Indulge and soak up in Fruitvale's cultural richness! And, while you’re at it, do not forget to sink your teeth into "Rosca de Reyes" - a special holiday cake, delicious Mexican hot chocolate, and arts & crafts for kids.

Time: 2:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.

When: Saturday, Jan. 5

Where: Peralta Hacienda Historical Park, 2465 34th Ave., Oakland, Ca.

Cost: Free

3) Three Kings' Day Celebration at Los Altos History Museum

The Museum will partake in the traditions by serving up traditional Rosca de Reyes, a wreath of sweet bread, which is a signature dish eaten on this special occasion. The museum offers a wide range of children’s activities to keep your tiny tots occupied as you discover the hidden gems at the place.

Time: Noon to 5 p.m.

When: Sunday, Jan. 6

Where: Los Altos History Museum, 51 S. San Antonio Rd., Los Altos, Ca.

Cost: Free

4) 21st Annual El Día de Los Tres Reyes Magos

If singing and dancing are activities that you really enjoy; this lively gaga which features traditional(as well as contemporary) song and dance performances won’t disappoint. Do take the time out to glimpse through the time-honored Mexican arts and crafts such as papel picado, corn husk dolls, and crowns. You could also learn a thing or two in tortilla-making and bite into this culinary staple, sample the traditional Three Kings pastry, Rosca de Reyes.

Time: Noon to 4 p.m .

When: Saturday, Jan. 12 and Sunday, Jan. 13

Where: Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose, 180 Woz Way, San Jose, Ca.

Cost: $15 Adults, $15 Children, $14 Seniors, Infants and members are free.