Photo by Diane Richter

Follow the star to Bethlehem Jan. 8 as ArtsQuest celebrates El Dia de los Reyes, a cherished cultural and religious tradition in many Latin American countries. The event, which is free and open to the public, will take place from 2-6 p.m. at the ArtsQuest Center at SteelStacks, 101 Founders Way, Bethlehem.

For many Christians, especially in Central and South America, the holiday season continues through the 12th day of Christmas, when it is believed in their faith that baby Jesus was visited by the Three Kings, also known as the three Wise Men or Magi. Following a star across the desert for 12 days to ancient Bethlehem, the Three Kings —Gaspar, Melchior and Balthazar— travelled by horse, camel and elephant to present Jesus with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.

During the annual Three Kings Celebration at SteelStacks, children are encouraged to throw on their best cloak and crown to dress up like The Three Kings. The Three Kings will arrive at the start of the festival to spend time with children and their families, presenting gifts graciously donated by PPL Corporation, B. Braun Medical Inc. and West Side Hammer Electric to children ages 10 and younger. Plus, they’ll share the story of the Three Kings in both Spanish and English with La Ola Radio hosts Matthew Braccili and Alfa Lopez.

The festivities continue with fun-filled activities just for kids including a scavenger hunt and crafts where children can make their own crowns and Three Kings figurines. There’s also live music by local Latin bands Herencia Jibara and Los Pleneros USA in the Musikfest Café presented by Yuengling, and delicious Latin food prepared by Holy Infancy Catholic Church will be available for purchase.