Three Kings Day – A Community cultural celebration to highlight Latino traditions

ROCHESTER, NY — Monroe County Executive Adam Bello and Legislature President Yversha Román announced today that they are partnering to host Three Kings Day – A Gift of Health at the Roger Robach Community Center in Ontario Beach Park on January 5th from 2:30 pm to 7 pm. 

The event celebrates the Christian holiday of the Epiphany, marking the arrival of the three wise men to visit the infant Jesus. It is called Three Kings Day in many Latino cultures, and is especially important in Puerto Rico, where many Rochester-area families can trace their roots.

The celebration will include a screening of the film, “Los Que Nos Une,” which presents music as a unifying element for Puerto Ricans at home and abroad. Other activities include a children’s story-time about the traditions of the Three Kings celebration, shoe box decorating, and live music. The Monroe County Department of Public Health will also be on hand to share resources and information with area families.

“Giving our residents the opportunity to celebrate an important cultural holiday while also bringing our Public Health resources directly to the community is a great combination,” said County Executive Bello. “We encourage families to join us and learn more about Latino traditions, while enjoying delicious food and lively music.”

Shoe box decorating is an example of a traditional Three Kings Day activity in Latin American households. Every year, children decorate shoeboxes filled with grass to feed the Wise Men’s horses, leaving them out before they go to bed. In the morning, the Wise Men will have left gifts for the children in exchange.

“Highlighting the rich cultural celebration of Three Kings Day allows us to honor the traditions, history, and values cherished by many Latin American communities,” said Legislature President Yversha Román. “This celebration presents a beautiful opportunity to share the joy of this meaningful holiday. It brings people together to celebrate unity and heritage while also focusing on health.”

Monroe County’s Department of Public Health will be hosting tables at the event to provide attendees with resources and information on topics from early childhood development to lead paint poisoning prevention, and to answer health and wellness questions.