Celebrating Dia De Los Reyes With Roscas, Gifts & Food In El Paso

For many here in El Paso and across the border, the holidays continue with the celebration of "Dia De Los Reyes" on Wednesday, January 6th.

A week into the New Year, many partake in what’s known as "Dia de Los Reyes Magos" (Three Wise Men) or Epiphany, a Christian feast day that is celebrated with a scrumptious Rosca de Reyes cake and a celebration.

Traditionally the oval-shaped cake (Rosca) is eaten on January 6, commemorating the "Three Wise Men" that made the trek bearing gifts to visit the baby Jesus after his birth.

Roscas are made with flour, salt, sugar, butter, yeast, water, and spices and then topped with dried candied fruit, similar to King Cake.

The Rosca itself holds many symbolic meanings. The candied dried fruit on top is said to resemble the jewels on a crown, while the Rosca itself symbolizes the crown for the Three Wise Men, and the hidden baby figurine in the pastry symbolizes being protected from King Herod.

Traditionally, whoever finds the Christ child figurine is the one who ends up hosting a party, preferably tamales or pozole and hot chocolate for Día de la Candelaria, or Candlemas, on February 2nd.

Aside from a sweet pastry, children receive gifts by leaving a wish list in their shoes for the Three Wise Men before going to bed.

Where To Buy A Rosca:

Traditional Roscas can be found at most local panaderias, including both Bowie Bakery locations. Bowie Bakery is offering Roscas, now through January 7, for $14.99. They also offered caramel-filled upon request.

You will also find them at all seven Vista Market locations around town.