When Does Santa Come in Mexico? The Three Kings Tradition

In Mexico, the primary gift‑giver is not Santa Claus on 25 December but Los Reyes Magos (the Three Wise Men) on 6 January—Día de Reyes (Epiphany).

How It Works

• Children write letters to the Magi (Melchior, Gaspar, Baltazar) and leave them in shoes or on the Christmas tree.
• On the night of 5 January, the Magi "visit," leaving toys and sweets.
• Families share Rosca de Reyes, a sweet bread with a hidden figurine of baby Jesus; whoever finds it hosts a tamale party on 2 February (Candlemas).

Santa’s Growing Presence

Due to U.S. cultural influence, Santa Claus (Papá Noel) also appears in malls and ads, and some families exchange gifts on both dates. But the Three Kings remain the traditional centerpiece.