Epiphany or Three Kings' Day 2025 in Canary Islands

Three Kings' Day, or Día de los Reyes, is one of the most cherished celebrations in the Canary Islands. Observed on January 6, this holiday commemorates the biblical story of the Magi—Melchior, Gaspar, and Balthasar—who followed the star to Bethlehem, bearing gifts for the newborn Jesus. Known for its grand parades, cultural traditions, and family gatherings, the event holds special significance in the Canary Islands, with Tenerife and Gran Canaria hosting some of the most spectacular festivities.

Parades and Processions

Santa Cruz, Tenerife

The highlight of the celebrations is the Cabalgata de Reyes, or the Three Kings Parade, which takes place on January 5, the evening before the holiday. In Tenerife, the parade in Santa Cruz is particularly notable, beginning at the Heliodoro Rodríguez López Stadium, where the Three Kings traditionally arrive by helicopter at 5 pm.

From there, a colorful procession winds through the city streets, accompanied by dancers, musicians, and performers. The parade route takes you from Avenida de Bélgica through Plaza de La Paz, along Rambla de Pulido, and culminates at Plaza de La Candelaria.The Kings distribute candy to delighted children, creating a festive atmosphere that is eagerly anticipated each year.

Las Palmas, Gran Canaria

In Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, the festivities also start on January 5. The day kicks off at 11 am at Santa Catalina Harbor, where the Kings arrive by boat. The parade then moves from Castillo de la Luz to San Telmo Park, with similar displays of vibrant floats, music, and costumed performers.

Smaller towns across the islands also host their versions of the parade, offering more intimate yet equally enchanting experiences.

Post-Parade Traditions

Following the parades, families gather for festive dinners featuring traditional Canarian dishes such as papas arrugadas (wrinkled potatoes) and mojo sauces. A highlight is the Roscón de Reyes, a sweet bread adorned with candied fruits. Hidden within are a small figurine of a king and a dried bean—tradition dictates that the person who finds the figurine is crowned king or queen for the day, while the one who discovers the bean is responsible for buying the next year's roscón.

On January 6, children eagerly open gifts left by the Three Kings, a beloved moment that often surpasses the excitement of Christmas Day in Spanish culture.