The 10th Annual Three Kings Day celebration in New Haven on Saturday united the community by distributing over 1,500 toys to children.
NEW HAVEN, Conn. — Saturday marked the 10th Annual Three Kings Day celebration at Puerto Rican United in New Haven.
It’s a religious holiday that commemorates when the three wise men arrived with gifts for baby Jesus.
The holiday is a major Hispanic tradition.
Puerto Rican United, along with Casa Otonal Inc., the New Haven Hispanic Firefighters Association and others held toy drives across the city to collect toys for the celebration.
In total, they were able to collect more than 1,500 toys for more than 600 children in the community.
Children up to 14 years old across New Haven and New Haven County were able to come to the “El Centro” community center to get a toy.
Jhonnathan Rivera, a spokesperson for Puerto Rican United, said this is a great way to teach Hispanic children about their culture.
“It’s about keeping the tradition alive and the culture. It’s remembering what Three Kings Day is for the Puerto Rican community and not just Puerto Ricans but the Latino community. It’s not just Puerto Ricans. It’s about keeping that tradition and culture alive,” said Rivera.
Nataly Munozfranzo was a volunteer and said being a part of this celebration is so rewarding.
“I really like seeing people’s faces and seeing how happy they are when they receive gifts. I like giving out to the people who really need it,” said Munofranzo.
Not only did children receive gifts, they also were able to visit a petting zoo outside and hear traditional Puerto Rican music.
Alyshia Hercules is a Multi-Skilled Journalist for FOX61 News. She can be reached at AHercules@FOX61.com. Follow her on Facebook or X.
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