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Epiphany, also known as Three Kings' Day or Día de los Reyes, is a significant cultural and religious holiday in Puerto Rico celebrated on January 6th. This day commemorates the biblical story of the three wise men — Melchior, Caspar, and Balthazar — who followed a star to Bethlehem to present gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the newborn Jesus Christ.
Epiphany has deep historical roots in Puerto Rican culture, blending indigenous, African, and Spanish influences. It has been celebrated since the Spanish colonization of the island.
Traditionally, children prepare for the arrival of the Three Kings by gathering grass or hay in shoeboxes for the Magi's camels. This gesture is akin to leaving cookies and milk for Santa Claus. The boxes are placed under their beds or beside their shoes the night before Epiphany.
On January 6th:
Gift-Giving: Children wake up to find that the Three Kings have left presents for them as a reward for their offerings.
Festivities: Towns across Puerto Rico host lively parades and festivals featuring music, dancing, and actors portraying the Three Kings.
Religious Services: Many attend church services to honor the day with spiritual significance.
Food: Families gather to enjoy traditional dishes such as "arroz con gandules" (rice with pigeon peas), "lechón asado" (roasted pork), and "pasteles" (similar to tamales).
The celebration of Epiphany is an integral part of Puerto Rican culture, reflecting both religious devotion and a rich heritage of communal festivity.