The 2026 Three Kings Day Parade in East Harlem celebrates Latin American and Caribbean heritage

2026 Three Kings Day Celebration. Artwork by Danielle de Jesus.

On Tuesday, January 6th, 2026, the 48th annual Three Kings Day Parade took place in the streets of El Barrio, for a great turnout.

Today marks the end of the 12 days of Christmas, and is celebrated by many around the globe. This marks this journalist’s first time covering this parade, as ironically enough, it coincides with “Epiphany” in Greek culture.

At 8:30 a.m., there was community breakfast at El Museo del Barrio, which marked the official start of the day’s festivities. They eat king cake, which is also known as “rosca de reyes.”

This year’s parade had the theme of “Forward, Always Forward.” It was inspired by the legacy of the Young Lords and the traditions of cultural resistance and mutual care in East Harlem.

Affectionately known as “La Reina del Barrio,” Rhina Valentin served as event host.

The procession began at 106th Street and Park Avenue, and it ended at 115th Street and Park Avenue.

It featured dynamic, soothing, and upbeat music, colorful floats, majestic camels, and the participation of thousands of schoolchildren and community members.

Patrick Charpenel, the Executive Director of El Museo del Barrio, described the Three Kings Day Parade as “one of New York City’s most enduring cultural traditions,” and rightfully so. “This celebration honors the history, creativity, and resilience of our community.”

During this parade, community members were dressed as the Three Kings (Melchior, Caspar, and Balthazar), and it commemorates the biblical journey of the Magi, and it celebrates Latin American and Caribbean heritage.

This year’s parade’s honorees (“Kings”) were New York City Councilwoman Diana Ayala (the first Latina Deputy Speaker of New York City Council), the late Latin jazz musician Eddie Palmieri (whose daughter Gabby Palmieri accepted the award on his behalf), and Jonathan Inoa, the anchor and reporter from “Univision.”

Faith Hill remarked, “The Three Kings Parade is a beautiful reminder that tradition is still alive — and that joy is something we can celebrate out loud.”

“It’s one of my favorite kinds of community moments: meaningful, vibrant, and full of heart,” Hill added.

The Verdict

Overall, the Three Kings Day Parade in Manhattan was an enthralling festivity that celebrated Latin American and Caribbean heritage in the packed streets of East Harlem.

There was something in it for everyone, and spectators ought to look forward to the 49th annual celebrations net year.

The 2026Three Kings Day Parade was a symbolic of the end of the Christmas season, and its festivities included breakfasts and performances that celebrated their rich culture, history, roots, music, and storytelling. Kudos to El Museo del Barrio for a job well done.