Tonight, as the stars align over Mexico, there is a palpable sense of excitement in the air. While much of the world has packed away their holiday decorations, here in Mexico, the magic is just reaching its peak. It is January 5th, and if you look closely at the bustling markets and bright store windows, you’ll see that the Three Kings (Los Reyes Magos) are incredibly busy.

A Tradition That Stands the Test of Time

While Santa Claus certainly visits Mexico, the tradition of the Three Kings—Melchior, Caspar, and Balthazar—remains deeply rooted in our culture. Tonight is the night of the Víspera de Reyes. Across the country, children have left their shoes out, often accompanied by a bit of hay and water for the tired camels, hoping to wake up to the sights of their dreams.

Tomorrow morning, January 6th, Mexican streets will be filled with laughter and the sounds of:

• New bicycles and skates zooming down the sidewalks.
• Soccer balls hitting the pavement in neighborhood matches.
• The latest video games and dolls being shared among friends.

The Grand Finale: Rosca de Reyes & Oaxacan Chocolate

At Ideal Spanish Mexico, our kitchen is already smelling like heaven!

The centerpiece of our celebration is the Rosca de Reyes, a delicious oval-shaped sweet bread adorned with crystallized fruit. Hidden inside are tiny figurines representing the Baby Jesus. Tradition dictates that whoever finds a figurine in their slice must host a party with tamales on February 2nd (Día de la Candelaria).

But a Rosca isn’t complete without the perfect pairing. We have our Oaxacan chocolate ready to be frothed into a warm, spiced delight. We can’t wait to sit down with our students tomorrow, share a slice (or two!), and practice Spanish over one of Mexico’s most beloved traditions.

Keep an eye on our social media! We’ll be sharing photos of our celebration and the “lucky” winners who find the hidden figurines in their Rosca.