Three Kings bring toys, smiles to Aurora children on 12th Day After Christmas
Nearly 1,000 children and their families lined up an hour early for the Three Kings Celebration Jan. 8 in Aurora.
Once they made it inside La Quinta Restaurant in downtown Aurora, they warmed up quickly with food, music, and free toys for the children from the three wise men.
Celebrated on the 12th day after Christmas, Three Kings Day pays tribute to the day more than 2,000 years ago when the three wise men - three kings from different nations - followed the star to Bethlehem after the birth of Jesus and presented him with gifts.
Just as that day, gifts were presented today to children of Aurora, ranging from toddlers to teenagers.
The three kings intentionally represented three different races to emphasize history, equity and unity.
Hosted by one of Aurora's most popular Mexican restaurants, La Quinta de Los Reyes, the event is supported by other local downtown businesses that united to sponsor the 1,000 free toys.
Families also enjoyed free food, drinks, music, and dancing on this final day of winter break for most of Aurora's children.