Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos en Alcoy-Alcoi
The Three Kings Parade in Alcoy-Alcoi is a historic and enchanting event, celebrated since 1885. This National Tourist Interest Festival features a grand procession on January 5th, where Melchor, Gaspar, and Baltasar make a spectacular entrance on camels. Over a thousand locals participate, bringing the streets to life with music, torchbearers, and the unique tradition of pages delivering gifts to children via ladders.
What to Expect
One of Spain's oldest Three Kings parades with unique gift-giving traditions.
Event Details
Duration
Starts at 6:00 PM, ends around 10:00 PM
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- Banda 'Corporación Musical Primitiva'
- Banda 'Sociedad Música Nueva'
- Banda 'Unión Musical'
- Agrupaciones de dulzainas y tambores
- Grupo de danzas 'Carrascal'
- Grupo de danzas 'Sant Jordi'
Organizer
Ayuntamiento de Alcoy (City Council of Alcoy)
Food & Drink
Not specified
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, cultural enthusiasts, tradition lovers
Vibe
Magical, traditional, festive, community-oriented
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: FREE
- Accessibility: Modo accesible
- Pets: No pets allowed
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, especially for the main procession and the gift-giving moments.
- Consider bringing a small ladder or stool if you have young children to help them see over the crowds.
- Dress warmly, as the event takes place in the evening during January and can be quite cold.
- Familiarize yourself with the route beforehand to understand where the 'Adoration' ceremony and the final fireworks will take place.
- Be prepared for large crowds; patience and a sense of community spirit are key to enjoying this beloved tradition.
Special Events & Promotions
- Festival of National Tourist Interest
- Continuous celebration since 1885
- Royal emissary's bando and 'les Burretes' with mailboxes
- Gift delivery via ladders to balconies
- Adoration of the Child Jesus ceremony with fireworks
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of 'les Pastoretes'?
The 'les Pastoretes' parade, held the Sunday before January 5th, features children dressed as shepherds who present gifts to the newborn Child Jesus, a prelude to the main event.
What is the role of 'els negres'?
'Els negres' are the pages responsible for delivering gifts to the children. They use wooden ladders to climb to balconies and windows, adding a unique and magical element to the gift distribution.
When does the main parade begin and end?
The main parade begins at 6:00 PM from the upper part of the town and concludes around 10:00 PM at the end of Avinguda del País Valencià, with a significant break in Plaça d'Espanya for the Adoration ceremony.
Is there a specific time for the Adoration ceremony?
The Adoration ceremony takes place in Plaça d'Espanya after the parade makes a pause there, typically after 8:00 PM, and is followed by a fireworks display.
What is the historical background of this parade?
The Cabalgata de Reyes Magos in Alcoy has been celebrated continuously since 1885, making it one of the oldest Three Kings parades in Spain and possibly the world. It was declared a Festival of National Tourist Interest in 2001.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.