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Three Kings at SteelStacks

Published January 14. 2025 12:59PM
by Jenn Rago Special to the Bethlehem Press

The Three Kings celebration marks the 12th day after the birth of the baby Jesus and the beginning of the Christian season of Epiphany. It is believed that the three kings, Gaspar, Melchior and Balthazar, traveled for 12 days following a bright star that led them to Bethlehem and the baby. It is the tradition in most Latin American countries for children to receive their gifts at this time – just as the baby received gifts from the three kings.

Locally, the kings did not traverse afar, but the tradition held Jan. 5 at SteelStacks. Hosted by ArtsQuest, the event featured music by Herencia Jibara, food by Holy Infancy and general assistance and gift distribution by the members of the Bethlehem Detachment of the U.S. Marines #284. Representatives from the Commonwealth Charter Academy aided children at craft tables as well as the Banana Factory Arts Center. At the Banana Factory’s craft station children were able to make their own crowns.

Highlighting the event, especially for animal lovers, was Einstein the Snow Camel. Making his sixth appearance at this event, the 15-year-old camel proudly sauntered around the square. Posing for pictures and accepting pats and hugs, Einstein should be at this event for many years to come; camels can live past their 30s just like ponies and horses, according to his owner and handler Chris Matey. Einstein is known for his unprecedented, unplanned jaunt on Route 309 in November 2018 during an unexpected snowstorm.

Preceding the gift giving, guests were privy to a reading of the story of the three kings by MEGA radio and the three kings in the Musikfest café. La Mega 97.9 is a broadcast radio station located in New York City offering free online Latino pop music. The reading of the three kings was in both English and Spanish. Immediately after reading everyone went to the Blast Furnace Room for toy distribution. The Marine Toys for Tots division and the Carlos Lopez Family generously contributed to this event.

Part of ArtsQuest’s mission is to provide access to exceptional artistic, cultural and educational experiences. Even though the event keeps growing, the three kings celebration maintains its focus on the diverse traditions and culture of the Bethlehem community.

Einstein the Snow Camel and his owner/handler Chris Matey arrive at the Three Kings event at SteelStacks Jan. 5. Einstein is a dromedary Camel (he has one hump) and is 15 years old.
The Commonwealth Charter Academy hosted an arts and crafts table for children at the Three King’s event.
Members of the musical group Herencia Jibara entertain guests with lively Latin American music. Herencia Jibara has performed at the 3 Kings celebration in previous years and is a crowd favorite.
press photos by jenn ragoGuests attending the Three Kings celebration enjoy music and dancing as they wait for MEGA radio 97.9 to read the story of the 3 kings. Herencia Jibara performed before and after the reading.
Just a King and his Camel. Taking Einstein, the Snow Camel for a walk around Town Square. Einstein is a regular part of the Three Kings celebration at SteelStacks.
The Three Kings prepare for the reading of the Biblical story of the three kings in the Musikfest café. The story was read in both English and Spanish.
9534 2 Kings and a camel strolling around SteelStacks as part of the 3 Kings Celebration.
Einstein smiles for his picture at SteelStacks. Einstein is one of the animals at Peaceable Kingdom in Quakertown.
Children eagerly await the gift giving that is part of the Three Kings Celebration. Tradition says that 12 days after the birth of Jesus the Kings honored him with gifts. Today, children primarily in Latin American countries are given gifts 12 days post-Christmas as part of the holiday tradition.