Dia de Reyes on a Dime: Celebrating Three Kings Day in Chicago

In many Latin American cultures, the Christmas season doesn’t end on December 25th. It continues until January 6th, which is Dia de Reyes, or Three Kings Day. This holiday celebrates the biblical story of the three wise men who brought gifts to the baby Jesus. It’s a time for family, food, and celebration, and you don’t have to spend a lot of money to enjoy this beautiful tradition in Chicago.

The Rosca de Reyes

The centerpiece of any Dia de Reyes celebration is the Rosca de Reyes, or Three Kings Cake. This sweet, ring-shaped bread is decorated with candied fruits to resemble a king’s crown. A small baby figurine, representing the baby Jesus, is hidden inside the cake. Whoever finds the figurine in their slice is said to have good luck for the year, and is also responsible for hosting a party on Dia de la Candelaria (Candlemas) on February 2nd.

Budget-Friendly Recipe:

You can find Rosca de Reyes at most Mexican bakeries in Chicago, but it’s also easy and affordable to make your own at home. Here’s a simple recipe:

• Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup warm milk
  • 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
  • 4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/4 cup candied fruit, chopped
  • 1 small, oven-safe baby figurine

• Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, combine the warm milk and yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.
  3. Add the eggs, butter, and yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until a soft dough forms.
  4. Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes, or until it’s smooth and elastic.
  5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours, or until doubled in size.
  6. Punch down the dough and shape it into a ring. Place it on a greased baking sheet and hide the baby figurine inside.
  7. Decorate the top of the ring with the candied fruit.
  8. Cover the ring and let it rise for another 30-60 minutes.
  9. Bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Hot Chocolate

No Dia de Reyes celebration is complete without a warm cup of Mexican hot chocolate. You can find tablets of Mexican chocolate at your local Jewel-Osco or a neighborhood market. Simply melt the chocolate in a saucepan with milk and a cinnamon stick for a rich and delicious treat.

Gifts for the Kids

In many Latin American countries, children receive gifts on Dia de Reyes instead of Christmas. If you want to embrace this tradition, you don’t have to spend a lot of money. A small toy or a book is a perfect way to celebrate the day.

Community Events

Many Chicago neighborhoods with large Latin American populations, like Little Village and Humboldt Park, have Dia de Reyes celebrations with parades, music, and food. Check your local community newspaper or website for information on events in your area.

This Dia de Reyes, gather your family and friends, bake a Rosca de Reyes, and celebrate this beautiful and meaningful holiday. ¡Feliz Dia de Reyes!