Spain’s festive season doesn’t end on Christmas Day. The Day of the Three Kings, known as Día de Reyes or Epiphany, is celebrated nationwide and holds a special place in family life.
When is the Day of the Three Kings in Spain?
The big date, Epiphany, is 6th January, when children wake to gifts from the Three Kings, or Reyes Magos: Melchior, Gaspar and Baltasar. It is a public holiday across Spain, so many shops and museums close or run shorter hours, and public transport may operate a reduced schedule. The night before, cities and towns host lively parades where the Kings arrive in style and throw sweets to the crowds.
Are shops open on Three Kings Day in Spain?
Most shops close on 6th January, with some tourist‑area exceptions. However, many open on 5th January with extended hours for last‑minute shopping.
What happens on 25 December vs 6 January in Spain
Spain’s festive rhythm splits across two key moments. On 24th December, Nochebuena brings everyone to the table for a late dinner. Christmas Day on 25th December is usually a quieter family day without too much going on. 6th January is when many children open their main presents, and families gather again for a long lunch.
Cabalgata parades — when and where to go
The Cabalgata on 5th January is the big night of Epiphany eve. Floats roll through city centres with the Three Kings waving from their thrones, pages hand out sweets, and brass bands and dancers keep the pace. Most cities start in the late afternoon or early evening and wrap up within a couple of hours.
- Alcoy (Alicante) — widely regarded as Spain’s oldest Cabalgata, featuring pages who climb ladders to deliver gifts to balconies.
- Madrid — a vast, televised parade with grandstands along central avenues and a finale by Cibeles.
- Barcelona — the Cavalcada de Reis often begins with the Kings arriving by boat at Port Vell before winding through the centre with confetti and candy showers.
- Sevilla — organised by the Ateneo since 1918, with elaborate floats, marching bands and a festive route that crosses traditional neighbourhoods.
- Valencia — a lively city‑centre parade with fireworks and a joyful finish around the Ayuntamiento.
Traditions and treats
Three Kings traditions begin well before the parade and are a great example of some of Spain's most unique festive rituals.
- In many towns, children post wish lists in a special royal mailbox set up at the town hall or in neighbourhood squares.
- Shoes are polished and lined up by the door, balcony or a window so the Reyes Magos can match gifts to each child.
- Families leave out water, milk and small snacks for the camels, and in some places, a handful of hay or a few carrots are added to the tray.
Roscón de Reyes — what it is and how it’s eaten
On 6th January, families share a Roscón de Reyes, a crown‑shaped brioche that is typically eaten at Christmas time. It is scented with orange blossom and often filled with cream. Inside, there’s usually a tiny figurine and a dried bean. Find the figurine, and you’re “king” for the day; find the bean, and you buy next year’s cake.
Planning a festive trip around Reyes Magos
During the festive season, bank holidays in Spain can change opening hours and transport, so it helps to check when Spain’s long weekend in December falls before planning a Christmas holiday. Plus, for travellers choosing a Spanish base to celebrate Christmas from, it's a good idea to decide first on the weather and vibe you fancy.
Spain’s festive season stretches from early December to Epiphany, so a Reyes Magos trip easily pairs with twinkling streets, bustling markets and winter city breaks. If you like planning around atmosphere, checking out the best Christmas lights in Spain will make things easier. Families who prefer a cosy build‑up can hop between the Christmas markets in Spain to pick up sweets, decorations and regional treats before the parades.
Stay informed on visiting and living in Spain with our weekly newsletter, delivering the latest travel, legal, and lifestyle news.
¿Cuáles son los platos típicos de Murcia? Estos son los que no te puedes perder
Murcia, situada en el sureste de España, es reconocida por su clima cálido, su hospitalidad y su extraordinaria riqueza gastronómica. Esta región, famosa por su fértil huerta, ofrece una cocina auténtica marcada por el uso de productos frescos y locales. Y es que a lo largo de los siglos, ha sabido combinar la influencia árabe, mediterránea y campesina en recetas llenas de personalidad. Descubre los mejores platos típicos de Murcia que no te puedes perder.
¿Conoces los quesos de Murcia? Estos son los más típicos
La Región de Murcia, situada en el sureste de España, es célebre por su huerta y sus vinos, pero también por su existente tradición quesera. En la gastronomía murciana, esta faceta ocupa un lugar especial, reflejando siglos de historia, técnicas artesanas y el carácter distintivo de su tierra y clima mediterráneo. Descubre cuáles son los quesos típicos murcianos, así como su variedad de aromas, sabores y texturas.
La mejor isla de España para visitar este otoño entre volcanes y océano
Escapar de la bajada de las temperaturas resulta mucho más sencillo de lo que crees: una escapada a las Islas Canarias durante el otoño es la opción perfecta para quienes suelen reservar unos días de vacaciones. Aquí encontrarás playa, calma y un paisaje volcánico sin grandes aglomeraciones.
Obras de Antoni Gaudí, ¿cuáles son las más importantes?
Pocos arquitectos representan de forma tan viva y contundente lo mejor de esta disciplina en España como Antoni Gaudí. Reconocido a nivel internacional, este artista catalán fue el máximo exponente del modernismo y creó un legado arquitectónico que sirve como testimonio de su genialidad. De hecho, muchas de sus obras han sido declaradas Patrimonio de la Humanidad por la Unesco.