Three Kings Day Fiesta-Ibiza

Ibiza, the third largest island among the Balearic Islands, is one of the most sought after party destinations of the world. The fun begins as your flights to Ibiza land next to the pristine waters at Ses Salines. A unique contrast of natural beauty and modern structures welcomes you as you enter the city of Ibiza. Interestingly, for a place famous for its nightlife, a large part of the island is registered with the United Nations as World Heritage Sites. Different festivals and events organized throughout the year add to the party atmosphere.
The 3 Kings Day is one such festival held in the city on 5th of January every year. This is one day that children look forward to and is celebrated with more exuberance compared to even Christmas, as families get together and children are given presents. Evening welcomes the 3 Kings or the 3 Magi, as they arrive in the city.
Once the 3 Kings arrive a procession is taken through the town with each of the Kings sitting on their respective floats. As they pass through the streets they hand out sweets and other goodies to children lining the route. The procession ends with children getting presents. It is quite a spectacle to watch as Kings travel in floats decorated with bright colored fabric and lights.
The day marks True Christmas, as this is the day when nativity of Jesus Christ is celebrated throughout Ibiza. The three Kings are actually the Three Wise Men that came from the East to bless the new born Baby Jesus and give him presents, thus the tradition of giving presents to children. However, these men are not mentioned in the St. Lukes Gospel and simply written as wise men in St. Matthew. According to the Roman Catholic Church and with time, these men came to be called as the Kings.
Just as these Reyes or the Kings presented gold, incense and myrrh to new born Jesus Christ, so are the Spanish children given presents on this day. The Kings actually travel to different towns around Ibiza and distribute sweets and presents among the children. Though the procession in main city of Ibiza is carried on floats, the Kings are carried on horsebacks or even cars, to the surrounding areas.
Its quite a contrast to the usual partying in Ibiza and a must watch if you plan your New Years Eve in Ibiza.
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