PANAJI
The Three Kings Feast, also known as the Feast of Epiphany, is a significant Christian festival to be observed on 5th January this year in Goa. It commemorates the visit of the Magi, or the Three Wise Men, to the baby Jesus in Bethlehem. This event symbolises the revelation of Christ to the Gentiles and marks the end of the Christmas season in many cultures. Across the world, this feast is celebrated with rich traditions, vibrant processions, and unique customs that reflect the diversity of local cultures. Here’s how the Three Kings Feast is observed in different parts of the globe.
Spain: A Spectacle of Parades
Spain celebrates the feast as “El Día de los Reyes” (Day of the Kings) with great enthusiasm. The night before, cities across the country host the spectacular “Cabalgata de Reyes” or the Parade of the Three Kings. The Magi, dressed in ornate robes, arrive on floats or camels, throwing sweets to children in the crowd.
In many households, children leave their shoes out, hoping to receive gifts from the Wise Men. A popular tradition is the “Roscón de Reyes,” a ring-shaped cake decorated with candied fruits. Hidden inside the cake are a small figurine and a bean; whoever finds the figurine is crowned king or queen of the day, while the one who gets the bean has to buy the cake next year.
Mexico: A Family Affair
In Mexico, the Three Kings Feast is called “Día de Reyes” and is a cherished time for family gatherings. Children eagerly await the arrival of the Magi, who bring gifts to celebrate the Epiphany. On the eve of the feast, children leave their shoes out, sometimes filled with hay or grass as offerings for the camels.
The centrepiece of the celebration is the “Rosca de Reyes,” a sweet bread shaped like a crown and adorned with dried fruits. A small baby Jesus figurine is hidden inside, and whoever finds it becomes the godparent of Jesus for the upcoming Candlemas celebration on 2nd February.
Italy: Befana’s Gift-Giving
In Italy, the Three Kings Feast coincides with the folklore of Befana, a kind-hearted witch who delivers gifts to children. According to legend, Befana was invited by the Wise Men to visit the newborn Jesus but declined, later regretting her decision. Now, she travels the world on Epiphany Eve, searching for the Christ Child and leaving gifts for good children and coal for the naughty ones.
The day is marked with processions, nativity scenes, and church services. In many towns, costumed figures of the Magi re-enact their journey, adding a theatrical flair to the celebrations.
France: A Royal Treat
In France, the feast is celebrated with the “Galette des Rois,” a puff pastry filled with almond cream. Hidden inside the cake is a porcelain figurine called a “fève.” The person who finds the fève in their slice is crowned king or queen and wears a paper crown provided with the cake.
The day is a time for family and community gatherings, with people sharing slices of the galette and toasting to the New Year.
Philippines: Festive Church Services
In the predominantly Catholic Philippines, the Three Kings Feast, known as “Tres Reyes,” marks the culmination of the Christmas season. The celebration is deeply religious, focusing on special church services and nativity re-enactments. Communities may also host small parades featuring costumed figures representing the Magi.
Germany and Austria: Star Singers
In Germany and Austria, the feast is celebrated with the tradition of “Sternsinger” (Star Singers). Children dress up as the Magi and go door-to-door, singing carols and collecting donations for charity. They carry a star symbolising the Star of Bethlehem and bless homes by writing the year and initials “C+M+B” (representing the traditional names of the Magi and a blessing in Latin) on doors with chalk.
Poland: Colourful Processions
Poland celebrates the feast with colourful parades and masses. The “Orszak Trzech Króli” (Procession of the Three Kings) features costumed participants and camels, recreating the journey of the Wise Men. Many families bake special cakes, and children are encouraged to wear paper crowns to remember the Magi’s visit.
Brazil: Folkloric Celebrations
In Brazil, the feast is called “Dia de Reis” and is celebrated with music, dancing, and folklore performances. Groups of musicians called “folias de reis” visit homes, singing and playing instruments in honour of the Magi. The day also marks the end of Christmas decorations, with nativity scenes and lights being taken down.
Global Significance
While customs vary, the essence of the Three Kings Feast remains the same—a celebration of faith, giving, and community. It brings people together, bridging cultures and generations through shared traditions.
