Los Reyes Magos in Ibiza

kidsinibiza

For many, January brings a sigh of relief that the crazy festive period has reached its end and ‘normal’ life can resume. In Spain however we gear up for one of the most eagerly anticipated dates in the festive calendar. The arrival of the Reyes Magos in their towns and villages.

In Spanish tradition the three kings: Melchior, Gaspar and Balthazar arrived on horse camel and elephant bringing gold, frankincense and myrrh to baby Jesus. Before going to bed on the eve of January 6th, children polish their shoes and leave them ready for the kings present to be put in them. The next morning presents will appear under their shoes. Many families leave three glasses of cava and some nibbles on their front doorstep in preparation for the Kings arrival.

Here in Ibiza, this tradition has been adapted and embellished, making it a real spectacle for all families and children. In both Ibiza town and Santa Eulalia the Kings dramatically and impressively arrive by boat and a large carnival like procession from the port to the town centre ensues.

In the smaller townships and villages, the Kings embark on a mini train procession through the streets throwing sweets to passers-by. The day before, parents are given the opportunity to place a wrapped and named present on the train which then makes its way to the main town square where the Kings arrive. The Kings then call the children’s names out one by one and they are each given a gift.

Families gather together for dinner on 6th January and may also indulge in the traditional pastry Roscón de Reyes, which is widely found in bakeries and supermarkets across the island over the festive period.

To find out when the Reyes are arriving in your town or village, please see our schedule below.

  • Friday, 5th January 2018
  • Ibiza
  • San José
  • San Jordi
  • San Augustin
  • Santa Eulalia
  • Santa Gertrudis
  • San Carlos
  • San Miguel
  • San Antonio
  • Cala de Bou
  • Saturday, 6th January 2018
  • Puig d’en Valls
  • Nuestra Senora de Jesús
  • Es Cubells
  • San Juan
  • San Lorenzo
  • Friday, 5th January 2018
  • 18.00
  • 19.30
  • 20.00
  • 20.00
  • 18.00
  • 19.00
  • 20.00
  • 19.00
  • 18.30
  • 18.00
  • Saturday, 6th January 2018
  • 11.30
  • 12.30
  • 18.00
  • 18.00
  • 19.00
  • Friday, 5th January 2018
  • Puerto de Ibiza
  • San José
  • CEiP San Jordi
  • San Augustin
  • Plaza Espana
  • Santa Gertrudis
  • San Carlos
  • San Miguel
  • Passeig de ses Fonts
  • Local Social de Cala de Bou
  • Saturday, 6th January 2018
  • Plaza de la Iglesia
  • Nuestra Senora de Jesús
  • Poliesportiu
  • San Juan
  • San Lorenzo

This post is also available in: Spanish