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For many, the coming of January begins the onset of the great holiday hangover. But for millions of Hispanic families, Jan. 6 is every bit as important as Dec. 25.
Known as El Dia de los Reyes Magos -- or Three Kings Day -- the holiday celebrates the Nativity story of the wise men who brought gifts to baby Jesus after following the light of a bright star. Many refer to it as the 12th day of Christmas.
In many households, the celebration closely mirrors the gift-giving traditions of Christmas. Much as families leave cookies and milk for Santa Claus, families in Latin American countries -- as well as in the United States -- leave boxes of grass for the camels of the wise men, who drop off gifts in return.
Many cities across the United States and beyond are observing the holiday with parades and celebrations. In New York City, a parade will feature novelist Oscar Hijuelos, artist Raphael Montanez Ortiz, and composer Lin-Manuel Miranda. In El Paso, the three kings will make an appearance at a shopping mall. In Kansas City, Mexican bakeries whip up special cakes embedded with tiny plastic dolls to symbolize the hiding of baby Jesus from King Herod.
