If you’re spending the festive season in Barcelona or you’ve recently moved here, there’s one more magical holiday to look forward to after Christmas—Three Kings Day. Known as Día de los Reyes Magos or La Cabalgata de Reyes, this celebration takes place on January 6th and is one of the most cherished traditions in Spain.
For many, this day is just as important as Christmas, if not more so. It’s a festive event full of parades, delicious treats, and presents! Whether you’re a tourist or a new resident, this guide will tell you everything you need to know about Three Kings Day in Barcelona.
What is Three Kings Day?
Three Kings Day commemorates the journey of the Three Wise Men—Melchior, Gaspar, and Balthazar—who traveled from the East to bring gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the newborn baby Jesus. The day marks the official end of the Christmas season and is considered the day when children in Spain traditionally receive their gifts.
In many Spanish households, the Three Kings play the role that Santa Claus might in other cultures. Children leave out shoes the night before, hoping to find them filled with presents the next morning.
A Bit of History
The tradition of celebrating the Three Kings is rooted in the Christian Epiphany and dates back centuries. It’s celebrated in various forms across Spain and Latin America, but in Catalonia, the holiday has a special charm, blending both religious and cultural elements with Catalan flair.
Historically, January 6th was seen as the most important day of the Christmas season, as it symbolized the arrival of the kings and the gifts they brought. Even today, the kings remain central to holiday traditions across Spain, offering a magical experience for children and adults alike.
How is Three Kings Day Celebrated in Barcelona?
The heart of the celebration in Barcelona is La Cabalgata de Reyes—the grand Three Kings parade that takes place on the evening of January 5th. This spectacular parade is a must-see event, filled with floats, music, dancers, and acrobats as the three kings make their way through the streets of Barcelona.
The Arrival: The kings officially arrive in Barcelona by boat, docking at the city’s port, where they are greeted by the mayor and given the keys to the city. This marks the beginning of the celebration, signaling that the kings will soon be delivering gifts to all the children.
The Parade Route: After the official welcome, the Three Kings and their entourage set off through the streets of Barcelona on a magical parade, tossing caramels (candies) to eager children who line the route. The procession typically starts at Avenida del Marquès de l’Argentera and makes its way through the city, passing by famous landmarks like Plaça d’Espanya and Montjuïc.
Extravagant Floats: Each of the kings has his own elaborate float, accompanied by a royal entourage that includes dancers, performers, and sometimes even animals. The colorful, whimsical floats represent different aspects of Christmas and bring the magic of the Three Kings to life.
Post-Parade Traditions: After the parade, families gather at home to prepare for the next morning. Children leave out their shoes for the kings to fill with gifts and sometimes leave a snack for the kings and their camels.
What Do People Eat on Three Kings Day?
As with any celebration in Spain, food is an essential part of the holiday! On the morning of January 6th, it’s tradition to enjoy a Roscón de Reyes, a round, crown-shaped sweet bread topped with candied fruits (representing the jewels on a crown). Hidden inside the Roscón are two surprises—a small figurine of a king and a dry fava bean.
- The King: Whoever finds the figurine is crowned “king” for the day and usually gets to wear a paper crown that comes with the cake.
- The Bean: If you find the fava bean, tradition says you’ll have to pay for the next Roscón!
Roscón de Reyes is typically enjoyed with a hot cup of chocolate a la taza (thick hot chocolate), making for a delicious start to this festive day.
Where to Celebrate in Barcelona
La Cabalgata de Reyes: The parade is the main event, and it’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit. The parade usually starts around 6:00 PM, and it’s recommended to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. Anywhere along the parade route will offer a great experience, but some popular spots include Via Laietana, Gran Via, and Plaça d’Espanya.
Roscón de Reyes: Many bakeries and pastry shops around the city sell Roscón de Reyes in the days leading up to January 6th. Some of the best places to buy one include Escribà on Gran Via and Hofmann Pastisseria in the Born neighborhood.
Church Services: If you want to experience the religious aspect of the holiday, many churches across Barcelona hold special services on January 6th. Barcelona Cathedral in the Gothic Quarter often hosts a mass for the Epiphany, which is a great opportunity to witness the religious significance of the day.
Why Should You Join the Festivities?
Whether you’re a tourist visiting Barcelona for the holidays or a new resident getting to know the city, Three Kings Day offers a wonderful opportunity to experience Spanish and Catalan culture at its finest. The blend of community spirit, magical parades, and delicious traditions makes this day truly unforgettable.
For tourists, the parade is a spectacular sight, and the opportunity to taste local treats like Roscón de Reyes adds an extra layer of excitement to the festivities. For new residents, this celebration is a chance to embrace local customs and connect with the rich cultural fabric of Barcelona.
Three Kings Day is more than just a holiday—it’s a celebration that captures the magic of the Christmas season and extends it beyond December. Whether you’re cheering on the kings at the parade, indulging in a slice of Roscón de Reyes, or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, this is a day filled with joy, wonder, and tradition.
If you’re in Barcelona for the holiday season, don’t miss out on this enchanting event. It’s the perfect way to immerse yourself in the local culture and create lasting memories in this beautiful city.
