The most magical night of the year is almost here. On 6 January, Spain celebrates Three Kings’ Day and, as tradition dictates, the evening before fills towns and villages across the Vega Baja with excitement.
Melchior, Gaspar and Balthasar will once again parade through streets and squares, accompanied by their royal pages, music, floats and, above all, the wide-eyed smiles of excited children. It is a special moment that brings families together year after year to welcome the Kings from the East.
Three Kings parades across the Vega Baja
Throughout the afternoon and early evening of 5 January, each municipality has organised its own parade. From Torrevieja to Algorfa, via Orihuela, Guardamar and Almoradí, the whole region transforms to celebrate.
Most parades start between 17:00 and 18:30, with routes adapted to each town and finishing in main squares, churches or outside town halls.
More than just parades
The magic doesn’t stop on the evening of 5 January. In the days leading up to Three Kings’ Night, many towns have organised special activities so children can hand over their letters in person and enjoy the experience even more.
- Guardamar del Segura is hosting a Three Kings’ Village all weekend, with family activities and letter collections.
- In Benejúzar, royal messengers will be receiving gifts at the Town Hall on 4 and 5 January.
- Almoradí sets up its royal camp in Plaza de la Constitución for the whole weekend, with entertainment and visits from the Kings’ pages.
- In Pilar de la Horadada, royal pages will be waiting in Plaza Campoamor, outside the Town Hall.
- Orihuela will enjoy a particularly symbolic visit, with the mayor handing over the keys of the city to the Three Kings.
There will also be especially touching moments, such as in Dolores, where the Kings will personally hand out some of the gifts inside the parish church.
Keeping an eye on the weather
This year, however, the weather is keeping organisers on their toes. Storm Francis has placed several parades on alert, and some may be cancelled or adjusted depending on conditions. Dolores, for example, has already announced the cancellation of its parade, although gift-giving will still take place in the church.
For that reason, it’s best to check official council channels before heading out.
