The Three Wise Men: Los Reyes Magos.

Hello everyone,

After my New Year post last year, I am bringing today yet another Spanish custom that might seem a bit odd.

I'm sure you have heard about the Three Wise Men, or the Three Kings: Melchior, Gaspar and Balthasar. According to the Bible, they brought gifts to Jesus after his birth.

In Spain, it is precisely them who bring gifts to everyone for Christmas! Yes, that's right, not Santa. And they don't give them on the 25th of December, but on the 6th of January! (However, it's becoming increasingly common for Spanish families to give presents on both Christmas and the 6th of January--it's just a matter of personal choice).

On the eve of that day, all around Spain there are parades where children can welcome them before they bring their gifts that night. They (and their pages) throw candy to the public as well!

In order for the Kings to know where to leave whose presents, we leave our nicest shoes out, usually in the living room. And if you've been bad... you risk getting a lump of coal.

In the morning of the 6th of January, after opening the presents, breakfast consists of this lovely pastry called "roscón  de reyes". There are little figures in the dough: if you get the king, you're "crowned" with a paper crown. If you get a bean... that means you have to pay for it!

Esther

Spanish Student Ambassador