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What is Three Kings Day and how do people celebrate it?

This holiday commemorates the visit the magi, Melchior, Caspar, and Balthazar paid to Jesus 12 days after his birth.

HARTFORD, Conn. — For many, the holiday season isn't over just yet! 

Three Kings Day, also known as Día de los Reyes Magos or Epiphany, is a widely celebrated Christian holiday in Latin America on Jan. 6. 

This holiday commemorates the visit the magi - Melchior, Caspar, and Balthazar - paid to Jesus 12 days after his birth as written in the Bible. 

According to the Bible, the wise men followed a star from Bethlehem and gave baby Jesus gifts. 

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How is it celebrated? 

Every year, people across Latin America, especially Puerto Rico, will have parades with floats, people dress up as kings and ride on horseback or camels passing out presents to children. 

Many Hispanic families still have the Christmas trees out. Children will get a box and stuff it with grass the night before and put it under their beds or Christmas tree to get presents from the three kings the next day. 

Where can you celebrate in Connecticut?

The Three Kings Day parade in Hartford is one of the most visible celebrations in the state. It is organized by the Samuel V. Arroyo Recreational Center, the Catholic Charities Archdiocese of Hartford, and the Hartford chapter of CICD Puerto Rican Parade Inc. The parade, which has been known to include real camels and costumed wise men, began at 10 a.m. on Saturday at 95 Park St. It ends at 11 a.m. at Pope Park.

The Derby Historical Society will hold its annual 12th Night Celebration on Saturday at the General David Humphreys House at 37 Elm St. in Ansonia. Admission is $5.

The Windham Recreation Center at 1 Jillson Square in Willimantic is hosting a free Three Kings Day event on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Registration is required.

West Haven’s Elks Lodge on 1537, 265 Main Street has an event scheduled from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 7. The festivity will include music, refreshments, and toys. It is free to the public.

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