Christmas and New Year have passed, but the New York holiday season doesn’t conclude until its annual finale: the NYC Three Kings Day. January 6th is the Dia de Reyes – the Day of the Kings!
This is a cherished festive holiday in Spain and many Latin cultures. And so, NYC’s Hispanic communities honor their special day with festive celebrations focused on children.
Background of Three Kings Day
Three Kings Day has roots dating back to the 4th Century. It is also known as Feast of the Epiphany or Twelfth Night (12 days after Christmas).
The holiday is observed in numerous nations with unique traditions. Many Hispanic cultures celebrate with parades and performances. These depict the Biblical story of the three kings who followed a star to find the baby Jesus. And because the Kings offered him precious gifts, there is a continuing tradition of the custom of gift-giving. In fact, children often write letters to the Kings – known as Los Reyes Magos or Magi – requesting presents.
Traditions of Three Kings Day
On the night of January 5th, children leave their shoes out for the Kings. The shoes are filled with bits of hay to feed the Magi’s animals (particularly the camels). In the morning, they find gifts in place of the hay.
Another tradition is the eating of a Roscón de Reyes (King’s Ring). This sweet bread shaped like a wreath has a figurine of a baby Jesus baked inside. Customarily, the person who finds the figurine is expected to host a party on Día de la Candelaria (Candlemas), celebrated on February 2nd.
NYC Three Kings Day Events
The NYC Three Kings Day festivities in NYC are primarily based on holiday customs of Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Mexico.
The largest celebration in NYC is the annual Three Kings Day Parade, hosted by El Museo del Barrio. This museum showcases Latin American and Caribbean cultures.
The holiday procession includes Honorary Kings, thousands of costumed school children, live camels, gigantic hand-made puppets, and performers who bring lively music and colorful dancing to the streets of El Barrio (East Harlem). The Three Kings themselves (portrayed by local celebrities) lead the festivities.
On January 6th from mid morning the parade winds its way through el Barrio. Usually the procession begins at 106th Street & Park Avenue and ends at 115th Street & Park Avenue. The parade itself typically runs about 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM after an early morning kick-off breakfast.
You can expect colorful floats, music, majestic camels, and large community participation along the full route. For specific details and routes check the webpage with all the details of Three Kings Day – El Museo del Barrio.
There is also a Three Kings Day Celebration at Teatro SEA . This FREE community event celebrates El Día de Los Reyes Magos on January 6, at 107 Suffolk Street in NYC. With giant puppets, live music, and free gifts for children.
Last but not least, you can also enjoy Essex Market Three Kings Day Celebration , on January 6, in the afternoon, from 3:00 PM–5:00 PM. This includes traditional foods, music, entertainment, and toy giveaways for kids.
FAQ´s – NYC Three Kings Day
Which countries celebrate Three Kings Day?
Three Kings Day is widely celebrated in Spain and across much of Latin America. This includes Mexico, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Cuba, Colombia, and parts of Central and South America. Because of New York City’s large Latino and Spanish communities, the tradition is especially vibrant in neighborhoods like East Harlem, the Lower East Side, and parts of Brooklyn.
Is Three Kings Day a public holiday in New York City?
No, Three Kings Day is not an official public holiday in NYC. However, it is an important cultural and religious celebration. Many community organizations, museums, schools, and churches host parades, performances, and family-friendly events to mark the occasion.
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