Reyes Magos Adelantan su Llegada en Varias Localidades de Galicia y Andalucía Due to Inclement Weather

As the traditional date of January 5th approaches, the arrival of the Reyes Magos (Three Wise Men) is being eagerly anticipated by children across Spain. However, this year, the impending bad weather has forced several cities and towns, particularly in Galicia and Andalucía, to adjust their celebration plans.

Galicia's Early Celebrations

In Galicia, several municipalities have decided to bring forward the cabalgatas (parades) of the Reyes Magos to January 4th to avoid the heavy rains and strong winds forecasted for the traditional date. Santiago de Compostela, a major city in Galicia, has announced that the Reyes Magos will make their appearance a day early, as confirmed by the city council[1][3][5].

Other Galician towns such as Nigrán, A Cañiza, Cambados, and Bueu have also confirmed that they will celebrate the cabalgatas on January 4th. In Bueu, the parade will start at 6 PM from the astillero de A Banda do Río and will follow a designated route, ending with a festive gathering in the carpa de As Lagoas. The Reyes Magos will spend the night in Bueu and participate in a reception at the Centro Social del Mar on January 5th[3][5].

In Vigo, the cabalgata has been reorganized to take place indoors at the Instituto Ferial de Vigo on January 5th. The event will be divided into two sessions: one in the morning from 11 AM to 2 PM and another in the afternoon from 5 PM to 8 PM. The mayor of Vigo will hand over the keys of the city to the Reyes Magos at 7 PM[1][3].

Andalucía's Adjusted Celebrations

In Andalucía, cities like Sevilla, Cádiz, Córdoba, Jaén, and Huelva have also decided to hold their cabalgatas on January 4th. Sevilla's historic cabalgata, organized by the Ateneo de Sevilla, took place on January 4th, marking the first time in over a century that the event has been rescheduled. The parade featured 33 floats and was attended by 200 local police officers to ensure safety[2].

In Huelva, the Reyes Magos arrived by boat and were accompanied by the renowned athlete Carolina Marín, who was dubbed "La Estrella de la Ilusión" for the children. The city of El Puerto de Santa María distributed over 60,000 kilograms of candies, including 24,000 kilograms of gluten-free treats, and included a silent segment in the parade to accommodate individuals with auditory sensitivities[2].

Ceuta and Other Regions

Ceuta was one of the first localities to welcome the Reyes Magos on January 4th, with the royal procession arriving at 10:30 AM. This early arrival was part of a broader effort across various regions, including Extremadura, to ensure that the celebrations were not disrupted by the adverse weather conditions[2].

Ensuring Safety and Enjoyment

Despite the changes, the essence of the celebrations remains intact. The Reyes Magos will still deliver gifts to children on the night of January 5th, as is the tradition. The adjustments are aimed at ensuring the safety and enjoyment of the participants and spectators, given the meteorological warnings issued by AEMET for several communities across Spain[2][4].

This year's celebrations highlight the adaptability and community spirit that define the festive season in Spain, even in the face of challenging weather conditions.