The Day of the Holy Kings is a religious observance and not a federal public holiday in Mexico. Access to streets in some cities and towns may be difficult for vehicles due to Epiphany related festivities on January 6.
Christians believe that three kings (or wise men) – Melchor, Gaspar and Baltazar – visited the child Jesus and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. This Epiphany story is celebrated in churches across Mexico.
The person who finds the figurine of baby Jesus inside his or her share of the sweet bread, Rosca de Reyes, symbolically “becomes” Jesus’ godparent.
Mexican children receive gifts from the three wise kings (Reyes Magos) on January 6. Streets in major cities are packed with food stalls, gifts, and outdoor parties. It is also customary to eat Rosca de Reyes, which is a wreath-shaped fruity bread baked with a figure of baby Jesus inside.
