Three Kings Day Parade returns in person for 1st time since pandemic
NEW YORK -- East Harlem hosted the 46th Annual Three Kings Day Parade on Friday for the first time since the start of the pandemic.
This twelfth day of Christmas, also known as the Epiphany, signifies the day the Three Wise Men brought gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to the newborn baby Jesus. Friday, it also celebrated the community coming together again.
Blending reverence for the occasion with fun for the whole family, El Museo del Barrio honors the feast of the Epiphany first with a breakfast, where Mayor Eric Adams compared today's asylum seekers to Mary and Joseph.
"Remember what Jesus was and why he was there. He was in the manger because there was no more room," Adams said.
This year's theme brought mental health top of mind as we feel and heal from the effects of the pandemic.
"It definitely impacted communities of color disproportionately, and so it's important that we talk about these issues and really prioritize getting that support that we deserve," activist Dior Vargas said.
Watch Kristie Keleshian's report
One of the iconic traditions of this parade that's sure to brighten spirits -- the puppets. The Wise Men tower tall above as Camila the camel dances her way down the street.
"You want to make the crowd happy, and you do that by playing very well and enthusiastically and dancing your camel little hiney off," puppeteer Sharon Epperson said.
The party passed down over generations represents neighbors helping neighbors however they can, not just the Wise Men with their riches, but also farmers sharing their crops.
"At the end of the harvest, you have a lot and you give back, and these are the lessons," historian and educator Aurora Flores said.
Lessons learned by little ones who may one day live like kings.
After the parade, El Museo del Barrio continued the celebration with free admission and performances.