The tradition of the Epiphany and the Three Kings in Spain

One of the pleasures of spending the winter season in Spanish waters is the many festive traditions that you can experience and enjoy. Evolution's superyacht services and crew services include full support all year round, and this includes all aspects of provisioning and event arrangements.
 

The Christmas and the New Year celebrations have concluded, but the fiesta season isn't over until the Three Kings arrive on January 6^th. Although children may receive something on Christmas day, it is the Kings who traditionally bring their gifts. This commemorates the Christmas story which tells of the Star of Bethlehem that guided the Three Kings (also known as the Three Wise Men) from the East to the nativity scene of Jesus’ birth, bringing gold, myrrh and incense. 

Festivities get started on the evening of the 5^th of January with the Cabalgada de los Reyes Magos, the Three Kings’ Parade. This year, festive parades return to Barcelona and Palma, as well as other cities around Spain. The Kings arrive by sea at the port. They lead a magnificent parade from their ornate float, waving to the crowds gathered below. Floats following the Kings are filled with festive characters, all glamorously dressed and throwing kilos of sweets out to the children (and grown-ups!) who line up on the streets to catch them and wave back.
 
A team of little helpers dart alongside, collecting letters written by children asking for gifts from the Three Kings. According to tradition, the children who have been good will receive their gifts, and the naughty ones will receive a lump of coal instead.
 
On the morning of the 6^th of January, excited children rush to see what they’ve been given. The last family lunch of the festive season is held, usually a lavish event with starters, a hearty main, and a traditional Roscón de Reyes cake. Crown-shaped and studded with candied fruit jewels, it contains two surprises. As slices are passed around, the person who discovers a miniature king figurine is considered king or queen for the day and has good luck all year. The one who discovered a bean has to get the roscón for next year, and do the washing up!
 
If you are staying at a Spanish port, you can be sure that Evolution is available to provide whatever you may need for holding a special celebration onboard your yacht, or for making recommendations and arrangements to celebrate like a local at the finest venues. Yes, the Evoteam will be your Three Kings, and we look forward to bringing you the finest fare. The only question is… have you been naughty or nice?! 

Email hola@evolutionagents.com.