Be a 'King' for a day

It’s not every day you see a camel walking down Graham Avenue.

But this Sunday in Williamsburg, your eyes won’t be deceiving you when the Three Kings Day Parade returns in all its spectacular glory.

Three Kings Day, also known as The Epiphany or Dia de los Reyes, traditionally occurs on the 12th day after Christmas (also known as Jan. 6), and celebrates the day when Jesus was revealed to be the son of God.

It’s essentially one big birthday party all over again.

The treasured procession, now in its 14th year, brings out thousands to share in the cultural heritage of the neighborhood’s Hispanic community. Parade highlights include a procession of three camels and three wise men, in shimmering red, green and purple robes, and a whole petting zoo, including donkeys and sheep, to recreate the nativity scene, as well as live music, dancing, and, just for the fun of it, a train of classic cars.

Also expect to see children dress up for the parade, Halloween-style (except that instead of Spider-Men or witches, they’ll be shepherds and angels).

Three Kings Day Parade starts at Meeker and Graham avenues in Williamsburg on Jan. 9 at 2 pm. For info, visit www.tresreyesmagos.org.

Photo by Stefano Giovannini