For many Christians, the holiday season doesn’t officially end until the 12th day of Christmas known as the “Feast of the Epiphany” or “Three Kings‘ Day”. The holiday marks the biblical adoration of baby Jesus by the three Kings, also referred to as three Wise Men or Magi (read more about the history and traditions of January 6 at http://three-kings-day.123holiday.net/)
One of the traditions in Mexico of this special day is this is when children get their Christmas gifts. Vendors lined the streets in San Miguel today (January 5) with children’s toys, sweets, and balloons, and parents shopped for Three Kings Day gifts for their little ones.
Coincidently, the prompt for Cee’s Black and White Photo Challenge this week is ‘Toys for Children or Adults’. And I found lots of material for pictures.
These dolls look like real babies, very different from when I was doll age.
What’s Christmas without a toy car?
Teddy Bears are always a favorite.
Soccer is a national pastime in Mexico, and every child has a ball, or is about to get one.
I couldn’t resist adding this one into the post. Not certain if it is earmarked for a special child, but the outfit is wonderful.
From San Miguel, have a wonder 3 Kings Day…
See lots more toys for big and small kids at https://ceenphotography.com/2018/01/04/cees-black-white-photo-challenge-toys-for-children-or-adults/
that little voice 
That’s so lovely!
There’s a charming custom here in Germany, too – or Bavaria, rather. I’m not sure whether they do it elsewhere. Three children dressed up as the Three Kings go from door to door and sing (they’re called “Sternsinger” = star singers). You can give them donations for their local church charity and they’ll write C+M+B over your door with chalk. The way my German friends explained, it stands for Caspar Melchior Balthasar and it’s meant as a blessing and/or for protection (though from what I haven’t quite figured out yet).
The 6th is also the day when Germans light up their Christmas trees for the last time before taking down all the decorations. A bit similar to the “Knut” my family celebrates on the 13th – without the tree tossing, though 😉
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As I researched 3 Kings Day, I was amazed at the different customs in various countries. I really hadn’t thought too much about Christmas customs in other countries, so it has been surprising and fun to learn more.
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Great photos. The teddy bears are my favorites. I love them even though i’m really too old for such things. 🙂
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Are we really ever too old for teddy bears?
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How interesting and I love the photos. The dolls are amazing.
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Very interesting! I never knew about this!
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Excellent choice of toys for this week. Thanks Margo.
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Thanks Cee. Fun one to do.
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