If we follow the song, we remember “on the 12th day of Christmas my true love sent to me: Twelve drummers drumming.” Rather than drummers, across Mexico the end of the Christmas season means arrival of the 3 Kings and, of course, toys (Día de los Reyes Magos)! This is particularly honored in southern parts of the country, including streets lined with elaborate stands, each offering a photo with the 3 Kings. In fact, “los Reyes” are often more or equally as anticipated as Santa in delivering toys and surprises at this time of year. Here in Puerto Peñasco, many community children will be receiving toys during Kings Day events held both by the DIF (Jan 6) and local motorcycle clubs (Jan 9).
Following a successful Toy Drive in mid-December, staff from the local office on Integral Family Development (DIF) will be holding a Kings Day fiesta to take place at their facilities Wed., Jan. 6th at 3 p.m. where they will be distributing the over 2000 toys collected during December. DIF staff add that children at the event, who are receiving “invitation” tickets beforehand, will be accompanied by the 3 Kings at the festival, where they’ll also be able to take home a bag of candy along with an individual toy.
With so many eagerly awaiting “los reyes magos”, the 2nd Kings Day Toy Run to be held on Saturday, Jan. 9th, will offer yet another opportunity to spread smiles across the community. Local motorcycle clubs, along with organizers of the annual Rocky Point Rally, have teamed up with the goal of distributing over 800 presents to children particularly in the area of Nueva Esperanza. Similarly, motorcycle club members and volunteers are distributing “invitation” tickets in advance to assist with the distribution of gifts, which will take place at Iglesia de San Miguel Arcangel in Col. Nueva Esperanza. For all kings [and queens] wanting to donate a toy, the “Toy Run” entourage is scheduled to meet Jan. 9th between 10 a.m. – noon in the Old Port, and then caravan together to the distribution spot at noon. Or, you can drop off a toy in advance at one of the following collection spots: Playa Bonita Hotel, Max’s Jewelry, Southside Jillz, Tekila Bar, Beach Bum, or the offices of RockyPoint 360 (Plaza Pelicanos).
¡Feliz Día de los Reyes Magos a todos! Happy 3 Kings Day to all…and perhaps 12 drummers drumming!