Yes, January 6th is a public holiday in Spain! It’s celebrated as Epiphany, also known as Three Kings’ Day or the Day of the Magi. It’s a major festive occasion, particularly for children, marking the end of the Christmas season.
Here are some details about the holiday in Spain:
- Gift-giving: Unlike many other countries, the majority of Christmas presents are exchanged on January 6th in Spain, rather than Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.
- Parades: Three Kings parades are a highlight of the day, featuring elaborately dressed actors on horseback, throwing candy to children lining the streets.
- Celebrations: Families and friends gather for large festive meals, enjoy traditional delicacies like the roscón de reyes (a sweet bread with a hidden prize), and attend church services.
However, there’s one caveat: if January 6th falls on a Sunday, the public holiday is typically moved to the following Monday in some regions of Spain. This includes Andalusia, Aragón, Asturias, Canarias, Castilla y León, Extremadura, Madrid, Murcia, Navarra, Ceuta, and Melilla. So, to be completely sure, it’s best to check with the specific region you’re interested in.
What is special on 6th January 2024 in Spain ?
Epiphany (Three Kings’ Day): It’s a national holiday celebrating the arrival of the Three Kings in Bethlehem, marking the end of the Christmas season. This is the main event, with:
- Elaborate parades: Magnificently dressed actors portraying the Three Kings, Gaspar, Melchior, and Balthazar, ride on horseback through cities, throwing candy to excited children lining the streets. These parades are a spectacular display of costumes, music, and tradition.
- Gift-giving: Unlike other countries, the majority of Christmas presents are exchanged on this day. Children eagerly await the arrival of the Kings and their gifts, left in shoes or under the Christmas tree.
- Festive meals: Families and friends gather for large celebratory meals, often featuring traditional dishes like roscón de reyes (a sweet bread with a hidden prize) and other regional specialties.
- Church services: Many attend church services to mark the religious significance of the day.
Additional events:
- Gym Party4: In Toledo, a unique event called “Gym Party4” takes place, combining fitness and fun with dance, music, and workout sessions.
- Mario Suárez: Inspired by the Birds: This art exhibition in Barcelona continues on January 6th, offering a captivating exploration of birds and their connection to nature.
Local variations:
- Some regions, like Catalonia, may have additional festivities related to their local traditions.
Public holiday:
- Remember, January 6th is a national holiday in Spain, so expect some businesses and institutions to be closed or have altered operating hours.
So, whether you’re looking for colorful parades, delicious food, festive gatherings, or something a little different like the Gym Party, January 6th, 2024, in Spain promises a special and exciting experience.