Speaking calendar/Three Kings Day (Día de los Reyes)
January 6th · Culture & Tradition

Three Kings Day (Día de los Reyes)

Known as the Epiphany, January 6th marks the arrival of the Three Wise Men in Bethlehem. In many Spanish-speaking countries and across Europe, this is a day of massive parades, traditional cakes (Rosca de Reyes), and the primary gift-giving event for children. This lesson explores why some cultures prioritise the Kings over Santa Claus, the importance of maintaining magical childhood traditions, and how commercialisation affects ancient religious holidays.

SPEAKING LESSONB1 / B2Discussion · Vocabulary · Activities
01 / LET’S TALK

Speaking Discussion

  1. Why do you think some countries (like Spain and Mexico) place more importance on Three Kings Day than on Christmas Day for gift-giving?
  2. What was your favourite childhood holiday tradition? Do you think the magic of these stories is important for a child's development?
  3. How do you feel about the commercialisation of holidays? Has the focus on buying gifts ruined the original meaning of these traditions?
  4. In your culture, do you have a specific food or cake that is only eaten on one special day of the year? Why is food so central to celebration?
  5. Would you rather receive gifts all at once on one day, or spread them out over a two-week holiday season?
  6. How hard is it for immigrant families to maintain their traditional holidays when they move to a country with completely different customs?
02 / PUT IT INTO PRACTICE

Activity 1: The New Tradition

The Task: You are a Cultural Designer. You need to invent a brand new holiday for your country. What is it called, what do people eat, and what is the magic story behind it?

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Activity 2: Rapid Fire Sentences

Complete the sentence and justify it in 20 seconds.

  • "The best part of a parade is..."
  • "I think traditional holidays are..."
  • "In my opinion, the best gift I ever received was..."