The "Día de los Reyes" or the Day of the Kings, also known as the Epiphany, is one of the most cherished and widely celebrated holidays in Spain. Held on January 6th, this day commemorates the visit of the Three Wise Men, also known as the Three Kings, to the baby Jesus in Bethlehem. The celebration is rich in traditions that reflect the cultural and religious heritage of Spain. Here, we delve into the diverse customs that make this day special.
The Parade of the Three Kings
One of the most awaited events associated with the Day of the Kings is the "Cabalgata de Reyes," or the Parade of the Three Kings. On the evening of January 5th, towns and cities across Spain come alive with vibrant parades reenacting the journey of the Wise Men—Melchior, Gaspar, and Balthazar—towards Bethlehem. The streets are filled with elaborate floats, music, dancers, and costumed participants.
The Three Kings, portrayed by locals, ride majestically atop their floats or on horses and camels, tossing candies and small gifts to the eager children lining the streets. Each King is typically dressed in ornate robes and crowned, embodying the luxurious and exotic aura of the biblical Magi. The parades vary in grandeur, with some cities like Madrid and Barcelona hosting particularly elaborate and theatrical displays.
The Tradition of Gifts
In Spain, the custom of gift-giving is closely tied to the Day of the Kings rather than Christmas. Spanish children write letters to the Three Kings, much like other children might write to Santa Claus, detailing their wished-for gifts. On the eve of January 6th, children leave their shoes out, sometimes filled with straw or hay for the Kings’ camels. That night, the Wise Men are believed to visit homes to leave gifts and sweets for the well-behaved children while delivering coal, often in the form of a sugar confection called "carbón dulce," to those who have misbehaved.
The King's Cake – Roscón de Reyes
An integral part of the Day of the Kings is the "Roscón de Reyes," a ring-shaped sweet bread adorned with candied fruits and sometimes filled with whipped cream or custard. The Roscón often hides a small figurine of a King and a dried bean. Tradition holds that whoever finds the figurine in their slice is crowned 'King' or 'Queen' for the day, sometimes with a paper crown that accompanies the cake. On the other hand, the person unlucky enough to find the bean is tasked with buying the next year's Roscón or an invitation to host the next gathering.
Family Gatherings and Festive Meals
Like most Spanish festivities, the Day of the Kings is marked by a joyous gathering of family and friends. After the excitement of the morning gifts, families come together for a lavish meal. Dishes vary by region but commonly include rich stews, roasts, seafood, and a variety of traditional sweets. The Roscón de Reyes is often the centrepiece of the dessert spread, enjoyed with hot chocolate or coffee.
The Day of the Kings stands as a testament to Spain's deep-rooted traditions and cultural vibrancy. From the magic of the parades to the joyful gift-giving and communal feasts, each aspect of the celebration encapsulates a blend of religious significance and festive cheer. Though the customs may vary slightly from one region to another, the enduring spirit of the Epiphany unites Spaniards in a shared experience of joy, generosity, and family togetherness, ensuring that the Day of the Kings remains a beloved fixture in the Spanish holiday calendar.