Activities and events in January in Barcelona
3 Kings’ Day in Barcelona, also known as the Epiphany, or ‘Dia de los tres Reyes‘ in Spanish, and Dia de Reis in Catalan, is one of the most celebrated and important holidays in Spain. Historically, Three Kings’ Day represents the day the Three Wise Men gave their gifts to the baby Jesus. Thus, this day is a part of the Catholic calendar and marks the conclusion of the Christmas season (the 12th day of Christmas).
Typically, this is when everyone receives the ‘biggest‘ presents, whereas Christmas Day itself is more for the ‘smaller‘ presents, like from Tió de Nadal. It is said that the Three Kings themselves, who are also known as the Three Wise Men, or Magi, are the ones responsible for children’s gifts.
3 Kings' Day in Barcelona
The parade
The excitement starts the day before on the 5th of January, when the Three Wise Men arrive and each city has their own ‘Cavalcada’ parade.
Roscon de Reyes
For many Spanish families, the 6th of January is an important public holiday in which everyone comes together to unwrap their second lot of presents, and eat plenty of food, including the traditional cake called the ‘Roscon de Reyes’. Hidden inside is a small plastic king or queen and whoever finds it is the monarch for the day. There is also a bean inside the cake; the unfortunate recipient has to buy the Roscon the following year.
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