A Magical Night: Celebrating the Arrival of the Three kings in Catalonia
The festive spirit of Christmas lingers as the winter nights in Catalonia transform into a spectacle of twinkling lights and vibrant colors. Anticipation fills the air as children eagerly await the arrival of the Three Wise Men, their hearts brimming with excitement. On January 5th, the beloved tradition of the Cavalcade of the Magi unfolds, captivating audiences of all ages with its enchanting charm.
This year, the four Catalan capitals are preparing too host spectacular cavalcades brimming with music, entertainment, and, of course, an abundance of sweets.Let’s explore the routes and highlights of these magical processions.
Barcelona’s Grand Procession
Barcelona’s Cavalcade will maintain its familiar format, promising a captivating experience for all. The Kings will embark on their journey by sea, arriving at the Portal de la Pau around 4:30 p.m. aboard the Santa Eulalia vessel.Mayor Jaume Collboni will extend a warm welcome,presenting them with the keys to the city,symbolizing their authority to deliver gifts to every household.
The grand procession commences at 6 p.m., lead by the esteemed pages Gregori, Estel, Omar, and the diligent postmen. the floats, adorned with intricate details and vibrant colors, will depart from ciutadella Park, traversing Marquès de l’Argentera avenue, Passeig de Colom, and Paral·lel avenue.
The Kings will then ascend Ronda de Sant Pau, turning onto Sepúlveda before reaching the iconic Magic Fountain of Montjuïc around 9:15 p.m.
Throughout the procession, a symphony of music, dazzling lights, and captivating performances will transform the streets into a realm of enchantment. Talented artists from diverse disciplines will weave their magic, creating an unforgettable experience for spectators.
Accessibility is paramount, with four designated points along the route catering to individuals with disabilities or functional diversity: Palau plan, Portal de la Pau, Plaça de les Drassanes, and Plaça Espanya.
Lleida Welcomes the Magi by Rail
In Lleida, the Three Kings will make a grand entrance by train, arriving at the Lleida-Pyreneus railway station around 5 p.m. A festive welcome party awaits, featuring live music to entertain residents as thay eagerly anticipate the arrival of their beloved guests. the Factoria dels Reixos will set the stage ablaze with their energetic performance at Plaça Berenguer IV, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
An hour later,at 6 p.m., the cavalcade will commence, promising a night of wonder and delight for all who gather to witness this cherished tradition.
A Festive Arrival: Three Catalan Cities Celebrate the Three Kings
The magic of the Three Kings is sweeping across Catalonia, with vibrant parades and celebrations planned in Lleida, Girona, and Tarragona.
lleida’s Royal Procession
Lleida’s beloved Three kings parade will commence in Plaça de la Seu, following its traditional route of over two kilometers with minor adjustments due to ongoing construction. Spectators will witness a unique sight as the royal procession travels along the left-hand side of Rambla Ferran, reversing the usual traffic flow. The procession will then continue through Avinguda Francesc Macià, Blondel, Madrid, Plaça Espanya, Blondel again, culminating at Paeria. Mayor Fèlix Larrosa will ceremoniously hand over the keys to the city to the Kings from the balcony of city Hall.This year’s parade features 12 elaborately decorated floats representing eight captivating themes. Adding to the festive atmosphere, dance groups from various Lleida schools will join the procession. Accessibility is a priority, with designated viewing areas for people with reduced mobility at Rambla Ferran number 31 and Avinguda blondel near Plaça Sant Francesc. The Kings’ message from the balcony will be interpreted in sign language, ensuring inclusivity for all.
Girona Embraces Diversity
Girona’s Three Kings festivity takes a significant step towards inclusivity this year. One of the three heralds, traditionally messengers announcing the Kings’ arrival, will be a person of color, reflecting the city’s diverse population. Previously, individuals of color only participated in Baltasar’s royal entourage.
Their Majesties are expected to arrive at the Royal camps in camp de Mart around 4 pm, where 24,000 chocolate coins will be distributed. The street parade will commence at 6 pm, winding its way towards Plaça de l’U d’Octubre del 2017.
This year’s route is slightly longer and more intricate than last year’s. The kings will depart with the floats, heading down Carrer Caterina Albert before continuing through Plaça Miquel de Palol. They will then turn onto Plaça Joan Brossa, passing through Plaça del Poeta Marquina before reaching Ronda Sant Antoni Maria Claret. The procession will continue along Carrer joan Maragall, Plaça Catalunya, and Avinguda Sant Francesc, where the kings will disembark from their floats. Melcior, Gaspar, and Baltasar will walk from Santa Clara Street to Plaça U d’Octubre, where a captivating show, similar to those in recent years, will entertain the crowd for approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
Tarragona Welcomes the Kings by Sea
Tarragona eagerly awaits the arrival of the Three Kings, who will make a grand entrance by sea, adding a maritime touch to their journey.## A Magical Evening: witnessing the Three Kings’ Arrival in Barcelona
Experience the enchantment of the Three Kings’ arrival in Barcelona, a cherished tradition that captivates the city every year.
The festivities commence at 6 p.m. in the vibrant maritime district of Serrallo, where the Kings disembark, greeted by the Minister of Culture and Festivities and a dazzling fireworks display.[[1]This spectacular welcome sets the stage for an unforgettable evening.From Serrallo, the procession embarks on a captivating journey through the heart of Barcelona. At 7 p.m., the floats, adorned with intricate details and vibrant colors, begin their parade down Carrer Reial, culminating in Carrer Apodaca.Led by the radiant Estrella d’Orient, the Kings traverse carrer Unió, reaching Rambla Nova, where they delight onlookers with a procession in both directions. The final leg of their journey takes them along Carrer Sant Agustí, Carrer Portalet, before reaching their final destination: Plaça de la Font.
As the evening progresses,the cavalcade is expected to arrive at the Town Hall square around 8:30 p.m. Here, the mayor ceremoniously hands over the keys to the city, symbolizing the kings’ honorary entrance. King Melchior then delivers a heartfelt message of peace to the assembled citizens, a poignant moment that resonates throughout the city.This annual event draws thousands of spectators eager to witness the magic and tradition of the Three Kings’ arrival. It’s a celebration of hope, joy, and the spirit of giving, making it a truly special experience for all who attend.
