This children’s article, Three Kings Day explained for kids: why people celebrate on 6 January, has been written for native English speakers and learners of English as a second or foreign language. It can help children practise reading and comprehension, learn useful vocabulary, and explore an important celebration that takes place next week in many countries around the world. Written by Sinead O’Carroll, an experienced English teacher and writer.
A celebration happening next week
Next Tuesday, 6 January, many people around the world will celebrate Three Kings Day. In some countries, this day is just as important as Christmas. It marks the end of the Christmas season and remembers a story that appears in the Christian Bible.
Children in countries such as Spain, Mexico, parts of Latin America, and some European nations often look forward to this day. For them, 6 January can be a time for family gatherings, special food, and even gifts.
What is Three Kings Day about?
Three Kings Day remembers the visit of the Three Wise Men, sometimes called kings, to the baby Jesus. According to the story, they followed a bright star to Bethlehem and brought gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
This moment is also known as the Epiphany, which means a time when something important is revealed. In this case, the story symbolises the idea of recognising something special.
How people celebrate around the world
Celebrations look different depending on where people live. In Spain, large parades called cabalgatas take place the night before, with the Three Kings travelling through towns and throwing sweets to children. In many Latin American countries, children leave shoes out overnight, hoping the Kings will leave small gifts.
Food is also an important part of the celebration. In several countries, families share a special cake. Inside the cake, a small figure may be hidden, adding a fun surprise to the meal.
Why the day still matters today
Three Kings Day is about more than presents. It is often a time for togetherness, sharing, and tradition. Families come together to eat, talk, and remember stories that have been passed down for generations.
For children, the celebration offers a chance to learn how different cultures mark the end of the holiday season. It also shows that important celebrations do not all happen on the same day or in the same way.
A global celebration with many traditions
Although Three Kings Day has religious roots, it has become a cultural celebration in many places. Some families attend church services, while others focus on food, parades, or spending time together.
You can learn more about Three Kings Day here.
Article vocabulary list
- Celebration: A special event where people remember or enjoy something.
- Tradition: Something people do or celebrate over many years.
- Epiphany: A Christian festival on 6 January remembering the visit of the Wise Men.
- Parade: A public event where people walk or travel through streets to celebrate.
- Symbolises: Represents an idea or meaning.
- Gathering: A time when people come together.
- Religious: Connected to beliefs or faith.
- Cultural: Related to the customs and way of life of a group of people.
Comprehension questions
Just click the plus (+) to see the answer
1. When is Three Kings Day celebrated?
a) 25 December
b) 31 December
c) 6 January
Answer: c) 6 January
2. Who does Three Kings Day remember?
a) The shepherds
b) The Three Wise Men
c) The angels
Answer: b) The Three Wise Men
3. What guided the Three Wise Men in the story?
a) A map
b) A star
c) An angel
Answer: b) A star
4. Which activity is common in Spain on Three Kings Day?
a) Fireworks
b) Large parades
c) Boat races
Answer: b) Large parades
5. What do some children leave out on the night before 6 January?
a) Plates of food
b) Letters
c) Shoes
Answer: c) Shoes
6. What does this article show about Three Kings Day?
a) It is celebrated the same way everywhere
b) It is only about gifts
c) It is celebrated differently in many countries
Answer: c) It is celebrated differently in many countries
Sinead is a writer and EFL teacher with eight years’ experience. She’s a native English speaker who loves making news stories fun and easy to understand for children around the world. Her passions include travel, animals, and helping to make the world a kinder, more sustainable place.
