Epiphany

Epiphany, known as **Día de los Reyes Magos** (Day of the Magi) in Venezuela, is celebrated on **January 6th** and marks the culmination of the Christmas season. This religious holiday commemorates the visit of the Three Wise Men (Melchior, Caspar, and Balthazar) to the baby Jesus, bearing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. In Venezuela, the celebration blends Catholic traditions with local customs. Families often attend church services, and children write letters to the Wise Men, much like they would to Santa Claus, asking for gifts. On the night of January 5th, children leave their shoes out, hoping to find them filled with presents the next morning. Traditional foods, such as **rosca de reyes** (a sweet bread shaped like a crown), are enjoyed, and festive gatherings with family and friends are common. Epiphany is a time of joy and reflection, emphasizing the themes of generosity and faith. It also marks the end of the holiday season, with many Venezuelans taking down Christmas decorations after this day.