Valley Families Celebrate Three Kings Day with Rosca de Reyes
Mission, TX — In a vibrant display of tradition and community spirit, families across the Rio Grande Valley gathered this past weekend to celebrate Three Kings Day, or Día de Reyes. This festive occasion marks the culmination of the Christmas season, honoring the arrival of the Three Wise Men to pay homage to the newborn Jesus.
The centerpiece of the celebration is the Rosca de Reyes, a sweet bread shaped into an oval and adorned with candied fruits. This year, local bakeries prepared dozens of these colorful breads, eagerly awaited by families eager to partake in the tradition.
“At our house, it’s not just about the bread; it’s about being together as a family,” said Maria Gonzalez, a Mission resident who hosted a gathering for friends and relatives. “We enjoy the rosca, and we talk, laugh, and create memories.”
Participants slice the rosca into pieces, each hoping to find the figurine hidden within. Traditionally, whoever discovers the figurine is responsible for hosting a tamales feast on Candlemas Day, February 2. Families regard this tradition as a symbol of good luck and a way to keep the festive spirit alive.
In communities across the Valley, celebrations included festive music, colorful decorations, and even a few outdoor games for children. Churches held special masses, reinforcing the holiday’s religious significance.
Local organizations also joined the festivities, providing free rosca and hot chocolate to families, ensuring everyone could partake in the joy of the day. “It’s really about sharing and giving back,” said Javier Martinez, a volunteer at a local non-profit. “We want to make sure every family can experience this special tradition.”
As the sun set, families gathered to enjoy the rosca, sharing laughter and stories of the past year. While Three Kings Day has its roots in Christian traditions, it has evolved into a cultural celebration embraced by people of all backgrounds in the Valley.
The festive atmosphere serves as a reminder of the importance of community and the joyous spirit of giving that resonates throughout the season. As families finished their celebrations, many looked forward to continuing the traditions for generations to come, weaving together stories of their heritage and the enduring magic of Three Kings Day.