Mexican traditions have been characterized by their cultural richness and deep symbolic meaning, qualities that have allowed many of them to transcend borders and be recognized and celebrated in different countries around the world. A clear example of this occurred recently on one of the most popular programs on American television, The Kelly Clarkson Showwhere Mexican singer Thalia was a special guest and took advantage of the space to share one of Mexico’s most endearing customs: splitting the rosca de Reyes.
During her participation in the program, Thalia became a true ambassador of Mexican culture by explaining the meaning and origin of this tradition that is celebrated every January 6th. Kelly Clarkson, host of the show, showed from the beginning a genuine interest in knowing how the Christmas festivities are lived in Mexico and, in particular, on Three Kings Day, a very important date for millions of families.
To recreate the experience as authentically as possible, the show’s production brought a traditional rosca de Reyes to the forum. The atmosphere became even more festive when rompope, a typical drink that immediately caught the attention of Kelly Clarkson, who pointed out its resemblance to egg nog, a classic holiday drink in the United States.
Thalia: The meaning of the rosca and the Baby Jesus
With the donut in front of them, Thalia explained step by step the symbolism behind this bread: its circular shape, which represents infinite love; the nuts, which symbolize the jewels of the Three Wise Men; and, of course, the little doll of the Baby Jesus hidden inside.
The singer explained that finding the doll implies a commitment: the person who gets the doll must organize a meeting afterwards and offer tamales on Candlemas Day, February 2.
An unexpected moment full of laughter
The funniest moment came when Kelly Clarkson was the first to break the donut. To everyone’s surprise, in the first cut appeared the Baby Jesus doll. The host’s reaction was immediate: laughter, astonishment and excitement when she learned that, according to Mexican tradition, it was now her turn to invite tamales to everyone present.
The joy of the moment was such that Thalia, infected by the excitement, had a little stumble that did not become a big deal and remained as one more funny anecdote of the segment. Later on, Kelly tried to pull one of the most common Three Kings Day pranks: trying to pass the doll to another person without them noticing. However, Thalia noticed immediately, and the gesture was received with laughter and complicity.
At the end of the segment, Kelly Clarkson thanked Thalia for bringing her closer to such a special tradition and for sharing a piece of Mexican culture with the international audience. The moment made it clear that the experience was enjoyed by both the hosts and the audience.
In this way, Thalia managed to bring the essence of Three Kings Day and Mexican culture to international television, demonstrating that traditions, when shared with pride and joy, can unite people from different cultures around the world.
Here you can watch the video of Thalia teaching Kelly Clarkson the tradition of the rosca de reyes.
Find out more at ‘QueOnnda.com’.
