Epiphany 2025
Date: January 6, 2025 (Monday)
Country: Spain Public Holidays
Description
Epiphany in Spain is a Christian holiday that celebrates the visit of the Three Wise Men to the baby Jesus. People call it Día de los Reyes Magos in Spanish. It is a day of faith and meaning.
The holiday takes place on January 6 each year. It follows the twelve days after Christmas and marks the end of the Christmas season for many communities across Spain. Schools and many businesses often observe the day.
Epiphany is significant because it symbolizes revelation and the arrival of important news to the world. For many, it highlights ideas of hope, giving, and the sharing of blessings among family and friends.
In Spain the day has strong cultural and historical importance. It brings together religious belief and national identity, and it is one of the main holidays of the winter season.
Traditions
On Epiphany night towns hold a Cabalgata parade with colorful floats. People line the streets to watch actors play the Three Kings. Candy is thrown to children and bands play lively music.
Children leave their shoes by the door or window. They often put out water and hay for the kings and their camels. In the morning children find small gifts or coal shaped candies if they misbehaved.
Families and friends share a Roscón de Reyes sweet cake. The cake sometimes hides a small toy and a bean. Finding the toy is lucky. The person who finds the bean buys the cake next year.
Many towns hold church services and community meals. People also send letters to the kings and exchange small presents with loved ones.
Travel Tips
Shops, banks, and some museums close or have reduced hours on January 6. Book tickets and check opening times in advance. Expect parades and crowds in city centers, so plan extra travel time and use public transport early or late to avoid jams.
Stay safe by keeping bags zipped and watching children in crowds. Join public events from a distance and respect local rules and barriers. Visit smaller museums, parks, or quiet neighborhoods to enjoy the day calmly and support local businesses that remain open.