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Northwest Mexican-American Bakeries Ready For Three Kings Day

Monday is a big day for Mexican-American bakeries across the Northwest. It’s Three Kings Day or the Epiphany, a Christian celebration of the day the magi came bearing gifts for Jesus. 

At Viera’s Bakery in Pasco, workers were hustling in preparation for a traditionally busy day.

“I think it’s one of the main days of all year that we sell a lot of bread,” said Alejandro Vacscez, who works at the bakery.

The shop’s crew expects to bake about 1,000 breads. To resemble crowns, the treats are shaped into huge round circles and jeweled with bits of fruit and sugary coating.

“It’s pretty special for us,” he said. “We make lines and stuff like that, but it gets kind of crazy once everyone is inside here.”

At Viera’s Bakery, a medium bread will set you back $25. One you could almost use as a hula-hoop sells for $35. 

There’s a tradition about Three King’s Bread. If you find a plastic baby Jesus in your piece, you’re responsible for hosting a party for your family soon.

Anna King calls Richland, Washington home and loves unearthing great stories about people in the Northwest. She reports for the Northwest News Network from a studio at Washington State University, Tri-Cities. She covers the Mid-Columbia region, from nuclear reactors to Mexican rodeos.