In the Dominican Republic, Epiphany, also known as the Feast of The Three Kings, is a significant holiday, traditionally celebrated on 6th January each year. This Christian holiday is recognized and celebrated by many Dominicans, particularly those of Catholic faith. The Epiphany marks the day when the three wise men, believed to be Melchior, Caspar, and Balthasar, according to the Bible, followed the Star of Bethlehem to visit baby Jesus, bringing him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
Epiphany, locally referred to as 'El Dia de los Reyes' (The Day of Kings), is characterized by various festive activities that include parades and gift-giving, with special emphasis placed on children. This is a day filled with excitement as children awake to find gifts left by the Three Kings. Similar to the tradition of Santa Claus in many other countries, children are encouraged to leave grass or hay under their beds the night before the holiday as a symbolic gesture for the Kings' animals, hoping they will be exchanged for presents.
Aside from the presents, another important tradition of the Epiphany celebration in the Dominican Republic is the 'Rosca de Reyes' (King's Cake). A sweet, baked dough, often shaped in the form of a ring or oval, representing a crown. It is usually topped with glazed fruits symbolizing the jewels of a crown. Hidden inside the cake is a small plastic doll representing baby Jesus, and the person who finds it, is blessed and considered king or queen for the day, bearing the responsibility of hosting the celebration next year. The combination of religious significance, festive merriment, and a sense of unity makes the Day of Kings a special event in the Dominican Republic.