Imagine a night when the streets come alive with lights, music, and a buzz of excitement that kids and adults can’t resist. It’s January 5th, and all of Spain is gearing up to welcome the Three Kings. What makes this tradition one of the most magical times of the year? In this article, we’ll walk you through every little detail of this unique celebration that keeps the Christmas spirit alive and highlights one of Spain’s most cherished traditions.

The story behind Spain’s Three Kings tradition

The story of the Three Kings comes from the Bible. According to the Gospel of Matthew, three wise men—Melchior, Caspar, and Balthazar—followed the Star of Bethlehem to honor baby Jesus with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Over time, this story turned into a beloved tradition across the Christian world, but in Spain, it has taken on a heartwarming, family-oriented twist.

The first documented "Cabalgata de Reyes" (Three Kings parade) in Spain was held in Alcoy, Alicante, in 1885. Since then, it has become a nationwide tradition, with each region adding its own flair.

The magic night of January 5th: The Three Kings Parade

The night before Three Kings Day is the highlight of the season for kids. The parades, or "cabalgatas," bring Melchior, Caspar, and Balthazar to towns and cities across Spain. With colorful floats, live music, and a rain of candy, it’s an unforgettable experience.

In big cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville, the parades are grand spectacles. Meanwhile, in smaller towns, the charm lies in how close the Kings get to the community, often chatting with kids and families.

Letters, shoes, and gifts: The build-up

The excitement begins weeks before, with kids writing letters to the Three Kings. They pour their hearts into these letters, listing their wishes and promising to behave well in exchange for their dream gifts. These letters are either dropped into special mailboxes or handed directly to the Kings’ helpers.

On January 5th, families place children’s shoes in a visible spot—like near the Christmas tree—as a sign for the Kings to leave their gifts there. Sweet treats are often left for the Kings, along with water for their camels.

Three Kings Day: January 6th

On the morning of January 6th, kids excitedly open their gifts, but the day isn’t just for them. Families come together to enjoy "roscón de Reyes," a crown-shaped cake filled with cream, truffle, or other delicious fillings. The cake hides two surprises: a small figurine of a king and a dry bean. Whoever finds the king gets to wear a paper crown, but whoever gets the bean is on the hook to buy the cake next year!

Regional twists in Spain

While the basics of the tradition are similar, each region in Spain puts its own spin on it:

• Catalonia and Valencia: Parades often include traditional figures like giants and "cabezudos" (large-headed characters).
• Andalusia: In places like Cádiz, the Kings sometimes arrive by boat.
• Galicia: Parades feature bagpipes and Celtic music, adding a local touch. These variations reflect Spain’s rich culture and how every region embraces the tradition in its own way.

The celebration around the world

The Three Kings aren’t just a Spanish tradition—they’re celebrated in other countries too:

Latin America

• Mexico: Kids leave their shoes by the Christmas tree, eagerly waiting for their gifts. Families also share a "rosca de Reyes," similar to Spain’s "roscón," with hidden surprises inside.
• Puerto Rico: On January 5th, kids gather grass to feed the Kings’ camels—a sweet gesture that’s part of festive celebrations and parades.
• Venezuela and the Dominican Republic: The day is filled with gift-giving, family gatherings, and lots of joy.

Europe

• Italy: While the Befana (a kind-hearted witch) is the main figure, the Three Kings play a role in Epiphany celebrations, especially in regions like Sicily.
• France: The French celebrate with the "galette des rois," a cake similar to the Spanish "roscón," which also hides a figurine. The person who finds it becomes the "king" for the day.
• Poland: Known as "Święto Trzech Króli," this day features parades and special church services, with thousands participating in some cities.
• Germany: In Catholic regions, kids dressed as the Kings go door-to-door singing and collecting donations in a tradition called "Sternsinger" (star singers).

The Philippines

In the Philippines, Three Kings Day marks the official end of the Christmas season, a legacy of the country’s Spanish colonial history.

The magic of the Three Kings in Spanish culture

Beyond the gifts and festivities, the Three Kings represent values like generosity, hope, and wonder. It’s a tradition that brings families together, turning the start of the year into a magical moment to share.

For visitors in Spain during this time, experiencing the Three Kings celebration is a unique chance to dive into local culture and see why this festivity is so deeply loved.

This celebration isn’t just about honoring an ancient story; it’s about keeping alive the traditions and values that define Spanish identity.

If you ever get the chance to experience Three Kings Day in Spain, Mexico, or France, don’t miss it. It’s a magical experience that shows how a tradition can cross borders and touch millions of hearts.

If you have any questions or need help, feel free to reach out to our team. We’d love to help you!