The Three Kings Parade in Los Cristianos, Arona

A wonderful procession perfect for kids of all ages to enjoy.

As the twinkling lights of Christmas fade and turkey becomes a distant dream again, the excentric and vibrant celebration of the Three Kings Day, or Epiphany, illuminates the hearts of Spaniards and Spanish-speaking cultures worldwide, especially here on this beautiful picturesque island. Particularly all over the pueblos of Tenerife, the anticipation buzzes through the air, culminating in the spectacular Three Kings Parade on January 5th, especially in the picturesque town of Los Cristianos. Last year, the three kings paraded on camelback, showering the crowds with delicious candies for the kids. They were artisanal fruit jellys and gorgeous to eat, if I remember correctly. So scroll on down to see more pictures and find out more about this most marvelous event in the heart of the south of Tenerife.

The Essence of Three Kings Day in Los Cristianos

Three Kings Day, celebrated on January 6th, is a cherished tradition marking the arrival of the Three Wise Men—Melchior, Gaspar, and Baltasar—who followed a star across the desert to present gifts to the newborn Jesus. This event, signifying the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles, is steeped in cultural and religious significance, symbolizing the gift of hope, love, and joy.

The Anticipation Builds

As the New Year chimes in, the festive mood lingers with the approach of Three Kings Day. The period leading up to January 6th is filled with anticipation, especially among children, who pen letters to the Wise Men, articulating their wishes. The eve of January 5th transforms into a spectacle of parades and joyous celebrations across Spain, with Tenerife hosting some of the most enchanting processions.

The Grand Parade in Los Cristianos

In Los Cristianos, a beloved tourist hotspot known for its golden beaches and vibrant life, the parade is a significant cultural event that paints the town with magical hues. From approximately 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the streets come alive with the echo of children's laughter, music, and the palpable excitement of the awaiting crowd. The event kicks off outside the Los Cristianos Cultural Center, where children, hearts brimming with hope, hand over their letters to the Kings. The air is thick with dreams and whispers of wishes as the procession begins, weaving through the town's quaint streets. The Wise Men, adorned in splendid robes and riding on ornate floats, shower the crowd with candies and smiles, symbolizing the distribution of gifts.

The Cultural Impact

This parade is not just a festive event but a deep-rooted tradition that resonates with the cultural ethos of Tenerife. It's an opportunity for families to come together, for communities to celebrate unity, and for everyone to revel in the joy that the Wise Men's visit represents. It's a time when the spirit of giving and the joy of the holiday season extend beyond the physical gifts to touch the hearts of all who participate.

More about this wonderful event

The anticipation for this magical day begins to build in the air long before January 6th, as the New Year dawns. It is a time filled with excitement and wonder, especially for the children who carefully craft their letters to the Three Wise Men - Melchior, Gaspar, and Baltasar - expressing their deepest wishes and dreams. This period of joyful anticipation culminates in the grand spectacle of the Three Kings Parade on January 5th, a day that holds special significance in the picturesque town of Los Cristianos.

Three Kings Day, on January 6th, marks the commemoration of the arrival of the Three Wise Men who followed a radiant star across the desert to present precious gifts to the newborn Jesus.

This event signifies the manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles and holds profound cultural and religious significance, symbolizing the gift of hope, love, and joy to the world. As the sun sets on January 5th, the streets of Los Cristianos come alive with the echoes of children's laughter, the rhythmic beats of music, and the palpable excitement of the waiting crowd. The festivities kick off outside the Los Cristianos Cultural Center, where eager children hand over their heartfelt letters to the Kings. The air is filled with the dreams and whispers of wishes as the procession begins its journey, meandering through the town's charming streets. The Three Wise Men, resplendent in their magnificent robes and riding on ornate floats, shower the crowd with candies and warm smiles, symbolizing the distribution of gifts to the faithful.

The Three Kings Parade in Los Cristianos is more than just a festive spectacle; it is a profound tradition that resonates with the cultural soul of Tenerife. It offers families an opportunity to come together, communities a reason to celebrate unity, and everyone a chance to embrace the joy that the Wise Men's visit represents. It is a time when the spirit of giving and the warmth of the holiday season transcend material gifts to touch the hearts of all who participate.

This extraordinary parade is a testament to the enduring charm and cultural significance of the Epiphany. It encapsulates the true essence of joy, community spirit, and the magical wonder of the holiday season. If you happen to find yourself in Tenerife on January 5th, do not miss the chance to immerse yourself in this enchanting experience, where myth and tradition come to life, creating memories that last a lifetime.

My wife and I felt truly blessed to have witnessed this remarkable event, and we eagerly anticipate returning in 2024. Will we see you there, too? The parade in Los Cristianos is a delightful fusion of cultural icons, featuring characters from beloved stories like Aladdin and even a parade of smurfs dancing to the rhythm of the drums. It all culminates with the grand arrival of the Three Kings, who make a dramatic entrance by boat at the main port of Los Cristianos, delighting the crowds as they throw sweets to the cheering and excited children. In the heart of this picturesque town, where the sea meets the land, and tradition meets festivity, the Three Kings Parade in Los Cristianos casts a spell that enchants both young and old alike. It is a testament to the enduring magic of the holiday season and a reminder that the spirit of generosity, love, and hope lives on in the hearts of those who gather to celebrate this cherished tradition.