The Day of the Kings

In Portugal, we celebrate the 'Day of The Kings' (Epiphany), on January 6, is called “Dia dos Reis” (day of the kings). This day is sometimes known as the “Dia dos Reis Magos” (The day of the Royal Magi).

According to the Bible, it's the day when a group of Kings or Magi, arrived to worship and bring three highly symbolic gifts (gold, frankincense and myrrh) to the baby Jesus after following a star in the heavens.

Apart from deep religious meanings, it's a moving sharing moment.

The King Cake “Bolo Rei” is traditionally served on this day but also very popular throughout the Christmas season.

Between 25 December and 6 January, tradition has it that people should go out into the street to sing the “Janeiras” (New Year Carols), reviewing the most important events of the year, with a spirit of happiness and great humour.

In the Algarve, groups of local inhabitants challenge householders to listen to their verses, in exchange for which they receive the traditional alms: either one of the seasonal sweet fritters or a glass of brandy. Another of the Algarve’s traditions is to be found in the groups of “charola” singers, who sing their songs to God in his Infant form, with rhyming verses alluding to the birth of Jesus Christ and the Three Royal Magi.

We've made and offer our "Queen Cake", and sang a traditional song to the other classes.