Culture

Celebrating Three Kings Day in Spain: A Joyful Tradition for Expats and Locals Alike

As the holiday season extends beyond Christmas, Spain and its expat community are gearing up to celebrate one of the most beloved and vibrant holidays: Three Kings Day, or Día de Los Reyes. This festive occasion, commemorating the visit of the three wise men to baby Jesus, is a cornerstone of Spanish culture and a delightful experience for those living in Spain.

When and Why It's Celebrated

Three Kings Day falls on January 6, marking the twelfth day after Christmas and the culmination of the Christmas season. This date is significant because, according to biblical tradition, it was on this day that Melchor, Gaspar, and Baltasar, the three wise men, arrived in Bethlehem to present gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the infant Jesus[3].

Dramatic Moment in Madrid's Three Kings Parade as Float Gets Stuck in Christmas Lights

On Sunday, January 5, 2025, the annual Three Kings Parade in Madrid, a beloved tradition that marks the eve of the Epiphany, was filled with the usual excitement and festive cheer, but it also witnessed an unexpected and dramatic moment that left both participants and spectators in awe.

The parade, which began at 6:00 PM from the Plaza San Juan de la Cruz and wound its way through some of Madrid's most iconic streets, including Paseo de la Castellana, Plaza del Doctor Gregorio Marañón, and Glorieta de Emilio Castelar, before culminating at the Plaza de Cibeles, was attended by over 200,000 people. The event featured elaborate floats, bands, flying angels, giant frogs, marine animals, and a plethora of other colorful attractions.

Expats in Spain: Exciting Developments in Children's Connection with Nature and Immigration Reforms

As expats in Spain, it is essential to stay informed about the various initiatives and changes that can impact your life and the lives of your families. Here are some noteworthy developments, particularly in the areas of children's connection with nature and recent immigration reforms.

Connecting Children with Nature

In a heartening move, several initiatives are underway to ensure that children in Spain and beyond have ample opportunities to connect with nature. The Children & Nature Network, an organization dedicated to this cause, has been instrumental in various projects.

“Sábado Joven” Program Returns in 2025 with Exciting January Activities

In a welcome move for the youth of Cantabria, the popular “Sábado Joven” (Young Saturday) program is set to make its return in 2025, kicking off a series of engaging activities starting from January.

Launch Date and Initial Activity

The program will commence on Saturday, January 11, with a creative workshop titled “Crea tu” (Create Your). This inaugural event is designed to foster creativity and innovation among the young participants, offering a platform for them to express themselves through various artistic mediums.

Christmas Magic Attracts Thousands to Cartes, Cantabria

In the heart of Cantabria, the municipality of Cartes has transformed into a winter wonderland, drawing in thousands of visitors from across the region and beyond. The festive season in Cartes has been a major attraction, particularly with the arrival of Christmas festivities that include enchanting events and attractions.

The Villa de la Navidad

One of the main draws is the "Villa de la Navidad" (Christmas Village), a sprawling festive complex that offers a myriad of activities and sights. Located in the Parque Marqués Velasco, this village is a must-visit for families and festive enthusiasts. The area is adorned with a giant Christmas tree, a bustling mercadillo (market) filled with local crafts and delicacies, and various festive stalls.