Valencia Trader

Los Reyes Magos in Alcoy

The triumphal entrance of Melchior, Casper and Balthazar into the city of Alcoy will take place in the afternoon of 5th January, accompanied by a spectacular retinue, and together they will travel round the main streets of this Alicante city in order to bring toys and gifts to all the children.

The first written references to the celebration of the Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos de Alcoy (Alcoy Cavalcade of the Three Wise Men) dates back to 1866, and during all this time the most central streets of the city have enjoyed the magic of a parade in which the children ask for presents by leaving their letters in the saddlebags of the donkeys and they are raised up onto the backs of the camels in order to be able to kiss Their Majesties. The cavalcade begins at 6 o' clock in the afternoon starting from El Camí then travelling round the main streets of the city. One of the high points of this cavalcade takes place in the square known as Plaza de España with the Adoration of the Infant Jesus by the Kings.

Meanwhile, hundreds of pages go around the streets bearing gifts and they reach the balconies of homes, one by one, using very long ladders in order to hand over the gifts that the children have asked for. No child ends up without a present.

The oriental music and the torchlight that lights up the streets creates a magical and dearly-beloved atmosphere, which, together with the ancient tradition and enormous popularity that characterises this cavalcade, have contributed to its being declared a Fiesta of National Tourist Interest.

As well as Alcoy the Reyes Magos will be taking their surprises and good cheer to many other places; don't not come and see them!

Date	January 5, 2007
Location Name	Last afternoon/evening.