Three Kings in Spain – who are the Reyes Magos and why is this more important than Christmas?

Written by Anita Orłowska on 02.01.2026 - 7m reading

For many people living or planning to live in Spain, it comes as a surprise that the most important holiday is not 25 December, but 6 January. This is when Spaniards celebrate Three Kings' Day – a moment full of tradition, joy and community, which says much more about the Spanish way of life than Christmas itself.

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Holidays in Spain have a completely different rhythm than in Poland. Although Christmas is present in the calendar, it is not the emotional centre of the entire holiday season. The real anticipation and family gatherings are concentrated around the beginning of January, when the Feast of the Three Kings is celebrated. For many people visiting Spain for the first time, this is a moment of surprise, but also curiosity. The Three Kings are not only a religious symbol here, but a living tradition that has a real impact on everyday life, the rhythm of cities and interpersonal relationships.

The Reyes Magos, or Three Kings – Melchior, Gaspar and Balthazar – are figures known from Christian tradition who, according to the Bible, came to Bethlehem to worship the newborn Jesus. In Spain, their story has not remained merely a part of religious tradition. Over the years, it has become an integral part of the culture and one of the most important events in the festive calendar.

Unlike many European countries, where Christmas Eve and 25 December are the culmination of the holidays, in Spain it is the beginning of January that arouses the most excitement, especially among children. Letters written to the Three Kings, preparations for the parade and the anticipation of presents mean that the holidays stretch out over time and do not end with Christmas. This cultural difference is often one of the first signs that life in Spain follows a different rhythm.

The evening of 5 January is one of the most characteristic moments in Spanish cities. Cabalgata de Reyes, or the Three Kings Parade, passes through the streets of almost every town – from large metropolises to small towns. The streets are filled with families, and the whole event has the character of a community celebration in which residents of all ages participate.

The parades are colourful, but not overly spectacular. The most important thing is the atmosphere of being together. The Three Kings ride on platforms, hand out sweets, wave to children, and the whole city slows down for a moment. In many places, the Cabalgata is the event that people wait for all year long. It shows how important public space and shared traditions are in the Spanish way of life, without dividing residents and visitors.

One of the biggest cultural differences is the fact that in Spain, it is the Three Kings who bring gifts. On the evening of 5 January, children leave their shoes by the door, and the next morning they find gifts in them. However, this moment is not associated with morning rush or tension. The day begins calmly, often late, and gifts are just one element of a family gathering.

For those accustomed to the intense pace of Christmas in Poland, this can be a surprising experience. In Spain, Christmas is not a race or an obligation to be ticked off. It is a natural extension of everyday life, in which relationships and time spent together are more important than the perfect setting or the perfect plan for the day. This approach is often appreciated by people who decide to live here for a longer period of time.

An integral part of Three Kings' Day is the Roscón de Reyes, a round yeast cake decorated with candied fruit. Although at first glance it looks like an ordinary dessert, it hides an important element of tradition. Inside, there are two surprises: a figurine and a dry bean, and finding them involves a small, humorous ritual.

This custom perfectly reflects the Spanish approach to holidays. It is relaxed, light-hearted and joyful, celebrating the moment together. Roscón de Reyes is not just a cake – it is an excuse to meet, talk and laugh, bringing families together around one table.

The Feast of the Three Kings clearly shows how life in Spain differs from life in Poland. The focus is always on community, relationships and being present in the here and now. Traditions are practised naturally, without pretension or a sense of obligation. Holidays do not turn everyday life upside down – they are a peaceful extension of it.

For many people, it is precisely these moments that prompt them to reflect on changing their lifestyle. The lack of rush, the emphasis on relationships and the ability to celebrate simple moments make Spain not just a holiday destination, but a place to live. If you want to better understand this rhythm of everyday life, it is also worth reading the article about life in Spain out of season – this is where you can see most clearly what everyday life looks like without the tourist filter.

The Three Kings are not just a holiday. They are a symbol of a lifestyle based on balance, relationships and quality time. For those considering moving or buying property in Spain, understanding such traditions is often the first step towards making an informed decision about changing where they live.

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