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Holiday Focus: Dia de los Reyes (The Day of the Kings)
In Spain and throughout much of Latin America, children receive their Christmas gifts on January 6 instead of December 25.
In the Western Christian tradition, January 6 (or Epiphany) commemorates the visit of the three kings (also called wise men or magi) to the baby Jesus, when they brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. On the evening of January 5, children leave their shoes by their beds or under the Christmas tree to await presents from the three kings. Children may also leave milk and treats out for the three kings and hay for their camels.
The Dia de los Reyes usually marks the end of the Christmas season in the countries where it is celebrated.
World Holidays Featured This Month
South Korea - New Year Celebration - January 1-3
Families in traditional clothing gather to exchange gifts, honor the dead, and enjoy large meals. Games are played and fortunes are told.
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines - Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Day - January 22
People often spend the day visiting or at the beach.
Mexico - St. Anthony's Day - January 17
A religious holiday when children take their pets to church to be blessed.
Azerbaijan - The Day of Commemoration - January 20
Honors victims of the 1990 Soviet invasion of Baku.
Australia - Australia Day - January 26
Commemorates the arrival of the first European settlers to Australia.
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