January 6th marks El Día de los Reyes Magos, otherwise known as the Epiphany or Three Kings Day. This is the day in the Catholic calendar that marks the visit of the Magi, bearing gifts of frankincense, myrrh, and gold to the baby Jesus. On the 5th, some Latino families celebrate the feast of the Magi by adding the figurines of the Three Wise Men to their nacimientos, or nativity scenes. Children eagerly prepare for the arrival of the gift-bearing Melchor, Baltasar, and Gaspar by leaving treats for the Magi, as well as hay and water for their camels. They also set out old (or new!) shoes for Los Reyes to fill with small gifts.
