Christmas celebrations continue today as Mexicans celebrate El Día de los Reyes, Three Kings Day. Also known as Epiphany, January 6 honors the day the three kings worshipped and gave gifts to Jesus.
Traditionally, Mexicans place the infant Jesus into his manger on Christmas day and the three kings join him today.
OK, so my little nativity is lacking a few key players, but you get the idea.
Today many Mexicans will eat this traditional bread, rosca de reyes; a tasty treat filled with symbols that tell a sweet tale. Shaped in a round like a King’s crown the bread holds a secret treasure; for baked inside is a figurine of the baby Jesus hiding from King Herod. The knife used to cut into the bread represents the danger that surrounded the infant king.
Bread is a fitting symbol as Jesus was born in Bethlehem (literally the house of bread) and declared himself to be the Bread of Life.
Traditionally, the one who finds Jesus in his bread will host another celebration on February 2 (which has nothing to do with groundhogs). Candelaria or Candlemas Day commemorates the presentation of Jesus the light of the world, in the temple of Jerusalem.
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