A huge, 11-ton bread was readied on Sunday for the traditional Magi party that sees thousands of Mexican families coming together to celebrate with food and gifts for children.

"This event is important ... we will not lose our traditions" that unites families, said Laura Vazquez, Mexico's secretary for economic development.

A central part of the celebration of the nativity's three wise men — described in the Bible as bringing presents to the newborn Jesus Christ — revolves around baking and eating La Rosca de Reyes (Three Kings Bread), a sweet, dry delicacy.

The bread in question, unveiled in all its glory at the central Zocalo square in Mexico City, is about 1600 metres long, and weighs close to 11 tons.

It will be shared between some 200 000 people gathered to celebrate in the city center.

Around 2300 bakers affiliated to the national baker's association (Canainpa) helped bake the bread.

In all, the sweet bread used seven tons of flour, 3.3 tons of butter and 1500 litres of milk, according to Canaipa head Antonio Arias.

Families in Mexico and throughout Latin America celebrate the Epiphany on 6 January, remembering the day when the Three Wise Men following the star to Bethlehem, arrived bearing gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh for the Baby Jesus.

AFP