Christmas is a time of joy, love, and celebration, bringing families together from all around the world. In Mexican American households, the holiday season is especially significant as it is a time when both American Santa Claus and Mexican 3 Wise Kings traditions coexist harmoniously. This unique blend of customs allows families to embrace their cultural heritage, creating magical experiences for their children. In this blog post, we will explore the traditions of Santa Claus and the 3 Wise Kings, and discuss how my family keeps both alive in my Mexican American family.

Santa Claus: A Beloved American Icon:

In American culture, Santa Claus is the central figure associated with Christmas. Santa is believed to bring gifts to children who have been nice throughout the year. Children excitedly write letters to Santa, sleepily leaving out cookies and milk for him on Christmas Eve. Waking up to find presents under the tree from Santa brings immense joy to children all across the United States. As a Mexican family, we celebrate Christmas Eve as "Nochebuena": Embracing the Mexican tradition of gathering with loved ones to celebrate the night before Christmas. Enjoy a feast of traditional Mexican dishes, including tamales, barbacoa, or ponche (Christmas punch), while recounting family stories and sharing love and laughter. Santa brings my children 1-2 gifts.

The Mexican Tradition of the 3 Wise Kings:

In Mexico, the celebration of Christmas centers around the joyous arrival of the 3 Wise Kings, also known as the Magi or the Three Kings. This custom dates back to the biblical story of the Three Kings, who followed the North star to Bethlehem to present gifts to baby Jesus. On the eve of January 6th, known as "El Día de Reyes" or "Three Kings' Day," children go to bed early, eagerly awaiting the gifts brought by the wise kings rather than Santa Claus. Children write letters to the Wise Kings, expressing their desires and wishes, and leave their shoes out to be filled with gifts. The day is commemorated with parades, feasting, and the traditional "Rosca de Reyes" - a sweet bread with a hidden figurine representing baby Jesus.

Blending the Traditions: Preserving Cultural Roots:

For Mexican American families who cherish both traditions, it is essential to find ways to honor their heritage while embracing American customs. Here are a few ideas on how to keep both Santa Claus and the 3 Wise Kings alive in your Mexican American household:

1. Educate and involve your children: Discuss the history and significance of both Santa Claus and the 3 Wise Kings with your children. Teach them about the diverse traditions, emphasizing the importance of family, gratitude, and love during the holiday season.

2. Blend the gift-giving experience: Encourage your children to write letters to both Santa Claus and the 3 Wise Kings, allowing them to experience the joy of receiving gifts from both. On Christmas Eve, let them leave cookies for Santa and on January 6th, keep the tradition of leaving shoes out for the Wise Kings.

3. Celebrate Nochebuena and Christmas Day: Continue the tradition of coming together on Christmas Eve to celebrate Nochebuena. Enjoy a feast with traditional Mexican dishes like tamales, barbacoa, and ponche navideño. On Christmas Day, spend time watching Christmas movies and baking cookies, embracing the American Santa Claus tradition.

4. Include Rosca de Reyes: Don't forget to add a Rosca de Reyes to your festive menu on Three Kings' Day. Make it a family event and participate in the shared excitement of finding the hidden figurine of baby Jesus.

Celebrating both the American Santa Claus traditions and Mexican 3 Wise Kings traditions allows Mexican American families to embrace their cultural heritage while enjoying the enchantment of Christmas. By incorporating elements of both customs, children can learn about diverse traditions and the importance of cultural pride. Remember, the true essence of these holidays lies in spending time with loved ones, creating cherished memories, and nurturing a sense of unity between two vibrant cultural worlds.