Honoring one of the most cherished holiday traditions in the Latino community, the San Clemente, Calif.-based California Milk Processor Board (CMPB), creators of the iconic “got milk?” and Toma Leche campaigns, will unveil on Jan. 5, 2018, Los Angeles' largest-ever Rosca de Reyes, traditionally enjoyed on El Día de los Reyes Magos, or Three Kings Day. The rosca, a ring-shaped sweet bread adorned with dried and candied fruits, will be created specifically for the occasion by Porto's Bakery and Café. It will be decorated, cut and served by Porto's Bakery and other selected Los Angeles-area Latino panaderías (bakeries), each of which will contribute a special milk beverage created just for the occasion, CMPB said.
Measuring 24 feet by 2.5 feet, the creation could compete for a place in the record books as Los Angeles' largest-ever Rosca de Reyes. The general public is invited to come join the celebration and enjoy a free sample of rosca paired with special milk-based beverages at Porto's Bakery in Downey, located at 8233 Firestone Blvd., from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. on Jan. 5, CMPB noted. Porto's Bakery will serve a special hot chocolate and dulce de leche latte; El Pavo and La Mascota Bakeries will offer Mexican-style hot chocolate called champurrado; and Homegirl Cafe will offer a strawberry jam milk-based drink.
Adding to the festivities, attendees will take pictures with the largest-ever rosca, guess its dimensions and look to find small trinkets hidden inside for a chance to win exciting toys and prizes, CMPB said. An arts and crafts area will be open for children to create their own carta a los reyes. Attending non-profits serving the communities, including Careers through Culinary Arts Program (C-CAP) and Homegirl Cafe, will receive a $4,000 donation from CMPB.
"We are proud to keep this much loved holiday tradition alive in our community," said Betty Porto, Porto's Bakery and Cafe vice-president of community relations, creators of the rosca. "Celebrating these traditions together with family and friends is what keeps our communities connected to each other and thriving."
Some Hispanic specialty panaderías across California will also join the celebrations on Jan. 6 with free rosca and milk beverage pairings. CMPB said the milk beverage recipes and more information about the activities are available on its website, www.gotmilk.com, and via social media on Facebook (@gotmilk), Twitter (@gotmilk) and Instagram (@officialgotmilk).
"The California Milk Processor Board knows the value and importance we as Californians place on our roots and traditional values," said Steve James, executive director. "We're pleased that milk continues to have a feature place at the table during these special occasions and year-round. After all, the holidays are better when celebrated with a sweet treat and a glass of milk."
