Three Kings Day in Puerto Rico: A Tradition that’s Still Alive

In Puerto Rico, Christmas doesn’t end on December 25. For many families, the most anticipated moment arrives on January 6, when the Three Kings visit Boricua homes filled with excitement, sweetness, and tradition.

Grass for the camels: a ritual that’s uniquely ours

On the night of January 5, children gather grass for the Kings’ camels and place it, traditionally, in shoeboxes under the bed. The next morning, the grass is gone, and in its place are gifts.
A curious detail is that today many businesses—such as pharmacies and supermarkets—have adopted this custom and give out Three Kings boxes to their customers, turning a household tradition into a shared experience.

“The Kings are poor” … and it never seemed strange to us

In many Boricua homes, it was said that the Three Kings were poor. What did that mean? That Santa Claus brought the big gifts, while the Kings left clothes, school supplies, or more modest toys.
And the truth is that for those of us who grew up with this tradition, it never felt odd. On the contrary, it was part of the charm and the message of simplicity that comes with this celebration.
Another detail that varies from home to home: in some houses, Three Kings gifts come wrapped, and in others they appear just as they are, without paper or bows. How was it in your house?

Juana Díaz: the home of the Three Kings

Although biblical accounts say the Kings came from the East guided by a star, in Puerto Rico it’s said—with great pride—that the Kings set out from the south of the Island, specifically from Juana Díaz.
Every January 6, this municipality hosts the oldest and most visited Three Kings celebration in Puerto Rico, with more than 130 years of history. The event includes artisans, traditional food, music, and the most anticipated moment: the arrival of the Three Kings of Juana Díaz on horseback, leading a parade and handing out sweets and gifts to children.
If you visit the town on another date, you can also explore the Museum of the Three Holy Kings, dedicated exclusively to preserving this tradition.

Official information about the Kings of Juana Díaz here:
https://www.losreyesmagosdejuanadiaz.com/

 

Three Kings Day Events in Western Puerto Rico

If you’re in the western area, here are some standout family-friendly celebrations to enjoy:

Grand Three Kings Celebration with Our Kids – Rincón

📍 Plaza de la Amistad, Rincón
📅 Monday, January 5 | Starting at 10:00 a.m.

• Visit from the Three Kings
• Dinosaur show (Dinos Adventures)
• Inflatables
• Popcorn, cotton candy, and hot dogs
• Gifts, raffles, and surprises

Celebrate Three Kings Day – Añasco

📍 Plaza Pública José Adolfo Pesante
📅 Monday, January 5 | 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Family-friendly event organized by the Municipality of Añasco with activities for children and youth.

3 Kings Celebration – Rincón

📍 Iglesia Santa Rosa de Lima and Rincón Town Plaza
📅 Tuesday, January 6 | 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

• Procession from the public beach
• Solemn Mass
• Celebration in the plaza
• Live music, food, gifts, and entertainment

Other special visits from the Three Kings

• Mayagüez Mall: Monday, January 5 at 2:00 p.m.
• Aguadilla Mall: January 2–5, from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Find more Three Kings events and family activities

To learn more about these and other Three King’s Day events—and much more happening in the region—visit our calendar:
https://whatsuprincon.com/upcoming-events/

Three Kings Day is more than a date: it’s a living tradition that connects generations, filled with memories, stories, and small customs that make Boricua Christmas truly unique.

And you—how did you celebrate Three Kings Day in your home?