While you may have chilled out after all the Christmas and New Years festivities, little nippers at lakeside are charging up for another dose of holiday cheer with the January 6 celebration of Dia de Reyes--Three Kings Day.
For Mexican children, January 6 rather than Christmas Day is the traditional date to wake up and find presents brought by mysterious overnight visitors. They grow up believing that Los Reyes Magos (Magi) come while they sleep to leave them toys and holiday treats--just as they delivered treasures to the Baby Jesus.
Before tucking into bed on January 5, they place their shoes under their beds or next to the household nativity scene to be filled with surprises. Wish lists directed to the Reyes may be slipped inside the footgear, placed beneath the manger or tied to a balloon released to the heavens.Rosca de Reyes
As the holiday approaches, shoppers find local bakeries and grocery outlets stocked with ample supplies of Rosca de Reyes, the ring-shaped bread decorated with jewel-like candied fruits that is the centerpiece for a traditional Kings Day snack.
Before sliding the loaves into the oven, bakers press tiny baby dolls into the raw dough, which symbolizes keeping the Christ Child hidden from the murderous King Herod.
Families and friends gather around to take turns cutting up the rosca, watching anxiously to see who finds a figurine in their slice to be named padrino (godparent) of the Baby Jesus and by extension, host for a traditional Candlemas tamale feast held on February 2 when the country's prolonged Christmas season finally comes to a close.
Deeper meanings
Known in English as Epiphany, January 6 is a religious holiday commemorating the revelation of the Christ Child as the Messiah, represented in scripture by the Wise Men of the Orient who followed the star to Bethlehem, bearing gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.
In common interpretations of their role in the Nativity story, the Magi are considered to be the men of royal stature as masters of esoteric knowledge. They are often portrayed to represent different generations and ethnic origins of mankind.
In Catholic doctrine, their gifts hold spiritual meanings. Gold is the most precious metal, fit for Christ the King. Frankincense, a type of incense used in sacred rituals, represents the Messiah’s divinity. And myrrh, an embalming substance, symbolizes Jesus’ human suffering and sacrificial death.
Magi on tour
Local youngsters will enjoy a special thrill this coming Sunday when the Three Kings make the rounds for live appearances at various locations.
Gaspar, Melchior and Balthazar are due to arrive at the north side of the Ajijic plaza at 6 p.m. to reenact their ancient trek from distant homelands lands to the holy birthplace. The event is being staged by members of the town’s Passion Play troupe, with support from the Pro-Ajijic community action group.
Kids will be treated to a piñata party and goody bags following the performance. Evening diners will be able to get their fill of heart-warming Pozole (hominy stew), to be dished out on site by the event sponsors. Nominal costs, set according to serving sizes, will go into the kitty to cover production costs.
The Reyes Magos will also be spotted in Chapala around the same time as they parade southward along Avenida Madero, ending the circuit in front of the San Francisco Church. Along the way they will dispense sweets and toys among the children hanging out to greet them. The celebration wraps up as the throng of spectators congregate at the church entrance to share cutting and nibbling dozens of Roscas set out side-by-side in the form a giant crown-shaped ring.