The Three Kings Celebrations and Parade (Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos) are among Mallorca’s most magical family traditions. For children in Mallorca—and across Spain—the arrival of the Reis Mags or Reis d’Orient (in Catalan) is the absolute highlight of the festive season.
The Parade takes place at nightfall on the eve of Día de los Reyes, with the arrival of the Kings marking the beginning of the Epiphany; the journey of Three Wise Men, led by a star, as they carried gifts to Baby Jesus in Bethlehem.
In the days leading up to January 5th, children across the island post their letters to the Kings in special mailboxes to be collected by the Royal Pages. At dusk on January 5th, the Kings make their grand entrance in towns and villages across the island, often arriving by boat or horseback, and accompanied by spectacular colourful parades. After the evening’s festivities, children leave out sweet treats for the Kings and their camels before placing their shoes by the door, hoping to wake on January 6th to find gifts waiting for them.
Palma 2025: The Showstopper Celebration
⛵ 18h. Shortly after dark on January 5th, The Three Kings sail into Moll Vell Marina on their ship ‘Rafel Verdea’. Families gather to watch as the Kings disembark their boat, and the King’s are greeted by excited crowds and words of welcome from Palma’s Mayor. This year’s Mayor, Jaime Martinez, will then hand over the key to the doors of Palma, symbolising the opening of the city for the long-awaited delivery of gifts.
🎉 From the Marina, the Kings lead a spectacular parade some 4km through Palma’s streets, traveling along Passeig del Born, Carrer de la Unió, La Rambla, Avinguda d’Alemanya, and back via Passeig Mallorca and Jaume III to Plaça Cort. This year seventeen procession floats have been designed according to ten themes. From traditional symbolism and the nativity, to timeless fairy tales, heritage toys and even a float of coal (for the naughtiest of children only!), the brightly coloured procession will be accompanied by some 300 entertainers and performers, musicians, and dancers.
🍬Children love to scramble for sweets as they are tossed into the air by the travelling Kings and their entourage. This year, it has been confirmed some 2000kg of sugar-free, gluten-free candy will be distributed!
👑 At approximately 20h, the processions comes to an end at Plaça Cort, where the Three Kings greet the crowds from the Town Hall balcony.
Palma’s celebration is the biggest on the island, drawing families from across Mallorca. To fully enjoy the experience, arrive early to get a good viewing spot along the parade route. It gets VERY busy so you’ll need to carry little ones on your back or always keep hold of a hand!
Beyond Palma: Charming Local Parades
For a local, slightly less busy experience, most towns and villages host their own magical Three Kings celebrations:
- Palmanova: The Kings arrive by sea at Club Náutico (just past the pirate ship playground) at 18h and then tour the seaside promenade on horseback.
- Portals Nous: The Kings arrive by boat at 18h, with a children’s mini disco starting at 17h.
- Port Adriano: King Melchor greets children on January 2nd, 3rd, and 4th (17h-20h), ahead of the Kings’ arrival by boat on January 5th at 18h
- Andratx: The Kings arrive at the Port at 18h then lead another parade from Andratx town hall at 19h.
- Pollença and Port de Pollença: The Kings arrive at 18.30h at both locations
- Port de Sóller: One to enjoy in the morning! The Kings arrive at 11h in the Port on January 5th, with a parade in the town of Sóller starting at 17h
- Alcúdia: The Kings arrive at the Port at 18.15h leading the parade to the Old Town on horseback for a 19.30h arrival.
- Many other parades take place at a similar time in the evening on the 5th, including Inca, Manacor, Can Picafort, Deia, Valldemossa and others.
Dia de Los Reyes on January 6th is a public holiday, and after the excitement of the night before, families gather for large lunches, the exchange of gifts and to see who finds the hidden ‘lucky’ toy in their slice of Roscon Kings cake.
Children can also meet the Kings on Dia de Los Reyes, with events planned in many towns on the morning on January 6th.
Family Friendly Top Tips
- – In Palma, and at most parades, expect significant crowds. For older children who may not be riding on your shoulders or holding an adult’s hand, it is a good idea to agree a meeting point close to where you are standing – children can easily get lost in the scurry for sweets!
- – Parking in Palma – or near local parades – will be challenging at best. Use public transport where possible! Be aware of significant road closures in Palma and elsewhere on Sunday January 5th. Check the Ajuntament website of instagram for all updates.
- – Remember that January 6th is a public holiday. Expect most shops, offices and schools to be closed for the day.
Dates and times are correct at the time of publishing however may be subject to change by the organisers. We recommend checking the Ajuntament’s instagram page to ensure no further updates or schedule changes.
Select image credits to @ajuntpalma
