In Spain, the holidays don't end on New Years Day, but instead 12 days after Christmas on Jan. 6th. It ends with the Feast of Epiphany also called "The Adoration of the Magi" or "The Manifestation of God." This day is known as the Three Kings (or Wise Men) Day: Gaspar, Melchior and Balthazar. According to the Bible, these three kings followed the bright star to Bethlehem and found Jesus. They gave gifts of gold, frankincense and
myrrh. (I never knew what myrrh was until I googled it.)
In Spain, the children wake to find gifts brought to them in the night by the Three Kings (just like our Santa Claus). The day before, on the 5th, Cadiz had a huge parade down the main avenue, where floats throw candy for the children and the Three Kings make their appearance. After the parade, the people walk to the old town. It's a sticky walk too, as the streets are covered with candy remnants, and they stick to your shoes and the back of your pants! At City Hall, the Mayor addresses the city and then sets off a huge display of fireworks from the roof top. Then, and this is what all the children get excited about, the Three Kings come and say hello over the loud speaker, letting the children know they will be very busy tonight, so go to sleep early!
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| The camels of the Three Wise Men |
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| Gaspar |
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| Balthazar |
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| Melchoir |
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This is a giant sized donut of what they serve at Three Kings. Inside is little presents for the children, so you have to be careful of where you bite.
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| The streets on the way to the Old Town (Vane & Marcos) |
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| City Hall - all lit up |
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| Cole, Marcos and Vane |
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