January 6th is Three Kings Day in Mexico, or El Día de Reyes. This is Epiphany or Twelfth Night on the church calendar, the 12th day after Christmas. Many Christians commemorate the arrival of the Magi or "Wise Men" who arrived bearing gifts for the Christ child on this date. This holiday was introduced in Mexico by Catholic friars during the colonial period. These days, some children receive gifts from both Santa Claus on December 24 or 25 and from the Three Kings on January 6. Santa is seen as an imported custom and the traditional day for Mexican children is to receive gifts is January 6.

On Kings Day it is customary for families and friends to gather to drink hot chocolate or atole and eat Rosca de Reyes, a sweet bread shaped like a wreath, with candied fruit on top, and a plastic figurine of a baby Jesus baked inside. The person who finds the figurine in their slice is expected to host a party on Día de la Candelaria,  February 2nd, and traditionally they serve tamales. We will visit the Panetla Panderia Artisanal, where master baker Paco Goro will discuss and demonstrate his masa madre (sourdough)bread-making methods. Paco promises we will share a Rosca de Reyes (Three Kings

Day sweet bread) and you may purchase breads and sweets to take home.We will then proceed to CASA, the Centro de las Artes in San Augustin Etla to view their current exhibitions,Timeless Faces, an expansive collection of Mexican masks from various cultures and themes.. CASA is housed in an early-20 th century textile mill converted into galleries, workshops, and performance spaces. Th beautiful pools that surround the building are part of a gravity-powered water system that cools the roof and supplies a nearby paper-making workshop. Renowned Oaxacan artist Francisco Toledo was instrumental in the artistic and ecological design of the arts center. We will enjoy lunch at Mia Arroz, a beautiful and popular Asian fusion restaurant.

Not included: The group will enjoy lunch at Mia Arroz, a beautiful and popular Asian fusion restaurant blending Chinese, Vietnamese, and Thai cuisines. Expect to spend 200-300 pesos for food and beverage

Additional Costs:  None

This tour will depart on time at 9:00 am  from the parking lot across from the south side of Llano Park. Plan to arrive 15 minutes before departure time. Unclaimed seats may be re-sold at boarding time.

If this tour is sold out, you can take a chance that seats may be available and come to the boarding spot 15 minutes before departure. These seats must be paid for in cash.

No Refunds will be available. If you are not able to attend the event, you are welcome to sell your reservation to others. Please notify the library of change of name for reservation.