Spanish Classes Send Up Three Wishes

Last week Parkview Baptist School High School Spanish classes studied a Hispanic culture celebration called “El Dia de los Reyes Magos” (Three Kings Day). January 6 is a symbolic celebration honoring the Three Wise Men. This holiday represents the day the Three Wise Men gave gifts to baby Jesus and also closes out Christmas festivities. Typically, children receive one gift on Christmas and one on Three Kings Day. Hispanics serve “Rosca de Reyes” or Kings Cake on this day. Similar to our Mardi Gras season King Cake, Rosca de Reyes cakes are also oval shaped and have a small doll inside representing baby Jesus and the hiding of the infant from King Herod’s troops. Traditionally, the cakes are decorated with dried and candied fruits to symbolize the jewels that a crown would have. The person who receives the baby in their slice of cake must host a party on “Dia de la Candelaria” which is held on February 2.

PBS Spanish classes chose to celebrate this festivity as people in Mexico do, writing a letter to the Three Wise Men and asking for three wishes which have been tied to a balloon and then released. Our students grow in appreciation for other cultures as they learn and experience different aspects of their lives and traditions.