Enjoying the Epiphany in Spain: main characteristics
Epiphany is a special festival that is celebrated all over the world, but in Spain people are more excited to celebrate this day. It is celebrated twelve days after Christmas on January 6. It is also known as the “Day of the Magi”. The word “Epiphany” originated from the Greek meaning “manifestation” and the day is celebrated because people believe that God came to Earth as a human being in the form of his son.
The children are very excited to receive gifts from the three kings. On Epiphany morning you can visit local bakers in Spain and buy a local cake / pastry called ‘Roscon’ which is a ring shaped roll. The roll is filled with cream or chocolate and decorated with a paper crown. In addition, there will be two figurines wrapped in plastic inside the cake: a little king and a bean. The one who takes the cut with the little king is the king and the person will have good luck for the rest of the year. The person who receives the beans has to pay for the cake.
It’s the best part and you can find this tasty sweet dish in each and every store or bakery. The day honors the three wise men who followed a star to find Jesus Christ in Bethlehem and gave him gifts the night he was born.
The celebrations are held throughout Spain but the main procession takes place in Madrid. Different parades are taken to the streets. On January 5, people line the streets to catch a glimpse of the celebrations and the special parade. The parade goes through the popular historic center and attracts several people. Children follow the kings through the streets during the day. People dressed in beautiful costumes beat drums and dancing puppets and clowns can also be seen. Camel-riding kings throw sweets and are collected by children and youth alike. If you are in Spain at the time of Epiphany, don’t miss the parade. The children also go from house to house, sing songs and receive treats.
Children place straw or grain in their shoes to serve food to the king’s horses. These are left on the balconies and parents fill them at night with gifts and cookies. The three types represent three different continents. King Melchior represents Europe, King Gaspar represents Asia, and King Balthazar represents Africa. The children write letters to the kings and place them in special boxes that are kept in department stores. Children receive gifts according to their wish.
Malaga shopping centers stay open until late at night. The sale also starts from December 26 and lasts until the end of this festival. It is worth spending some time in Spain to enjoy the epiphany. This wonderful festival can be a great memory for your children. The arrival of the Epiphany marks the end of the festive season. You will surely enjoy spending time with your friends and family. People warmly welcome ‘Plow Monday’ the day after the festival. It is the end of the festive season where love and laughter are spreading everywhere.