The Three Kings Parade in Madrid is back again this year to spread magic, tradition, and excitement, especially among the little ones. Thousands of families will gather again on the streets of Madrid to welcome Melchor, Gaspar, and Balthazar in one of the most important Christmas celebrations.
It’s a very special day, but with a lot of crowds. For this reason, we advise you to leave your belongings in a safe place, especially so you don’t lose them. At LOCK & enjoy! we have luggage lockers in Madrid located in central parts of the city so you don’t have to travel too far to rent one of our lockers.
Why the Three Kings Parade in Madrid is so special
The Three Kings Parade in Madrid is one of the largest and most spectacular in Spain, not for its age but for its extensive route that allows you to enjoy the activity from different points in the city. It stands out for its careful staging, themed floats, and live music.
Every year, thousands of people take to the streets on January 5 to see the main protagonists pass by: Melchor, Gaspar, and Balthazar, along with the children, as they are the ones who enjoy this activity the most. Apart from collecting candy and toys, it is a moment that combines tradition and spectacle. However, arrive with enough time, otherwise you will not get a good spot to enjoy the show.
The parade starts at 6:00 PM and ends at approximately 9:00 PM, although the schedule depends a lot on the number of people.
What is the route of the Three Kings Parade in Madrid?
The official route maintains the classic path, crossing some of the most emblematic points of the city. Take note of the route to choose your favorite place from where to watch the parade. Remember that if you come by train or Cercanías, we have backpack lockers in Atocha. Enjoy the afternoon without unnecessary burdens!
- Plaza de San Juan de la Cruz (start).
- Paseo de la Castellana.
- Plaza del Doctor Gregorio Marañón.
- Glorieta de Emilio Castelar.
- Paseo de Recoletos.
- Plaza de Cibeles. At this last point, Their Majesties offer a final message, followed by a fireworks display.
Now then, what is the best spot?
If you are going with family, the sections of Paseo de la Castellana and Paseo de Recoletos are the most recommended because they have wide sidewalks and greater visibility for the little ones. On the other hand, if you are looking for more excitement, Plaza de Cibeles is the best place, although it is also the most crowded of all.
On the other hand, the areas of Emilio Castelar and Plaza de Colón also offer a very good perspective, since they have bleachers enabled, however, you have to book in advance, but it is a very comfortable and recommended option. We would like to emphasize that near Plaza de Colón you also have our backpack lockers in Malasaña.
Roscón de Reyes: the perfect plan after the parade
Madrid is the perfect city to taste the famous Roscón de Reyes on this special day. It is not just a dessert, it is an essential part of the plan for January 5. After hours in the street watching floats, collecting candy, and enjoying the atmosphere, the roscón is the final prize.
There are many people who have it for breakfast the next day, after dinner, or even in the same afternoon after the parade ends. Many families go to the traditional pastry shops in the center to buy one. In addition, in Madrid, roscón is consumed with hot chocolate. It is a very simple plan, but very rooted in Christmas customs.
Where to buy roscones de Reyes in Madrid?
- La Mallorquina. It is one of the reference pastry shops in the center, since it has been open since 1894, which is why many locals choose it to buy their authentic classic and fluffy roscón. Are you going to continue shopping in Madrid ? Leave the roscones you buy in our lockers in Plaza Mayor!
- Casa Mira. Head to Calle Tetuán to enjoy the roscones from Casa Mira, a century-old tradition in the heart of Madrid. It is one of the most valued for its authentic flavor and texture.
- Horno San Onofre. It has several stores in different central areas of Madrid. If you want to buy more modern roscones or with different fillings, go to Horno San Onofre. In addition, the roscones stand out for their classic as well as modern presentations.
Another option you have is to taste the famous churros with chocolate in any of the churrerías that are in the streets of the city due to the Christmas season.
Practical tips to enjoy the Three Kings Parade in Madrid
To enjoy this magical day, at LOCK & enjoy! we recommend that, above all, you don’t get overwhelmed. It is about making the most of the experience, especially if you have children and come from outside Madrid.
The first tip is to arrive with enough time, as we have indicated before. Keep in mind that there are sections that fill up more easily than others and, therefore, choosing a good spot makes the difference.
On the other hand, dress in warm and comfortable clothes, since it is very cold in Madrid in January. The Three Kings parade is experienced standing and outdoors for many hours, which is why comfort is key.
Another very important recommendation has to do with the little ones. Go to a visible point without excessive crowds in case any of them get lost. Therefore, having the phone with battery is very important. Did you know that our lockers in Madrid have USB chargers?
We are waiting for you at the Three Kings Parade in Madrid so you can fully enjoy one of the most important events in the city!
