The free event will be held at Segra Park in Columbia.
COLUMBIA, S.C. — For some, the holiday season isn’t over just yet. The Latino Community Development is bringing the annual Three Kings Day Festival to Columbia for the 12th year.
“It is so meaningful and so culturally specific and of importance, because we know how largely this is celebrated across the globe,” Tonya Rodriguez-Hodges, the Latino Community Development executive director, said.
The holiday is celebrated on Jan. 6 every year, marking the 12th day of Christmas.
“It is a significant day because it is equivalent to many of us as Christmas, and it’s a day that we want to share with the community, we want to have everyone to come together as one, and also a day where we can continue the celebration into January, because the season isn’t over yet,” Rodriguez-Hodges said.
Although the birth of Jesus is celebrated on Dec. 25, this holiday commemorates the three kings—or, as many know them, the Wise Men—who didn’t actually reach him until 12 days later.
This is the 12th year the organization is bringing this festival to Columbia, but this year, the event will be held at Segra Park, a partnership the organization said was unexpected.
“It’s just a sign that we are exactly what we say we are. We are a welcoming city. We are a welcoming state. We have a multitude of cultures and diversities here, and it’s an opportunity for us to be able to share, celebrate and come together for one final hip-hip hurrah, if you will, for the holiday season,” Rodriguez-Hodges said.
The festival is for the whole family and will include face-painting sessions, music, gifts, and even a special appearance by Abraham, the camel.
Jessica Pagan, who celebrates Día de Los Reyes each year, said she’s grateful to have a part of her culture represented.
“It’s our culture. it’s the way we grew up,” she said. “It means the world, you know, being able to bring our culture to mainland, and feel that home vibe. It means everything.”
The free event is from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Segra Park.
