By Carol McGowan
To celebrate Three Kings Day and distribute toys and community resources, 16th District Cook County Commissioner Frank J. Aguilar held his annual Three Kings Celebration last week.
It took place at his district office, at 7833 Ogden Avenue in Lyons, on Friday, January 5.
This was the third year for the event, and it’s grown each year.
Last year, several hundred people came through the doors and this year was no exception.
The holiday celebrates the biblical adoration of baby Jesus by the Magi, or the Three Kings.
Those that attended took photos with the Three Kings, the children received toys and were able to register for raffle prizes, and all enjoyed Rosca de Reyes and hot chocolate with the 16th District community.
Rincon Family Services partnered with Aguilar and were onsite providing resources for residents.
Cook County President Toni Preckwinkle was on hand once again this year and took part in cutting the Rosca de Reyes, also known as King Cake.
The tradition of eating the decorated bread 12 days after Christmas is based in Christianity, marking the day when Christians believe the Three Wise Men followed the star to Bethlehem and arrived with gifts for baby Jesus.
Rosca de Reyes is a special bread that comes in the shape of an oval to represent a crown.
If you get a baby Jesus doll in your slice, tradition has it that you have to hold a party for everyone on February 2, or Candelaria Day.
Miss Cicero 2023-2024, Emily Apango, got a baby in her slice to the delight of Preckwinkle.
“The fabric of family, community and collaboration runs deep in our community,” said Rincon Family Services President and CEO Eddy Borrayo. “It is always an honor to participate in community events that brings family, community organizations and community leaders together. The Three Kings celebration embodies a long tradition in the Latino community of hope, prosperity, and joy.”
Aguilar said he’s happy with the bigger turnout each year.
“This event is really catching on. It’s very popular in the Latino community, and more communities are taking part. In Latin America, gifts are given on January 6. Here in the United States, they’re given on Christmas, December 25. The children are excited here as they receive toys at Christmas, and again on Three Kings Day. Three Kings Day is January 6, but we are celebrating this evening on the 5th to hold it on a weeknight.
“This is an event for my district, but we welcome all children. Anything that benefits the kids, I’m all for it.”
Aguilar smiled when asked what a big eye-catcher is with the kids.
“Slime and Play-Doh are a big deal. Those items are really popular. They love that stuff!”
Preckwinkle was also happy to take part.
“I’m very happy to have been invited to this event again this year. It’s a great event for all that attend.”
Preckwinkle gave special thanks to Aguilar, and Chicagoland Toys for Tots for making the event possible.
Aguilar also thanked Chicagoland Toys for Tots Motorcycle Club, Rincon Family Services, state Representative Elizabeth “Lisa” Hernandez, and Congressman Jesus “Chuy” Garcia, both who had office representatives on hand.
Sam Johnson, Parade Coordinator for the Chicagoland Motorcycle Toys for Tots Parade, said they are happy to donate all the toys.
“This is a great event and we’re glad to be part of it.”
Johnson was proud to talk about the great participation in the parade, and overall collection of toys.
“It’s an all-year process,” he said. “Planning, collecting, etc. It’s a fantastic family we have.”
For more information on the Toys for Tots Motorcycle Parade, visit www.chicagolandtft.org.
Aguilar was extremely happy with the turnout and the event in general.
“If this gets any bigger, we may have to move it to expand our space for the kids.”
