The evening of January 5 promises to be truly magical in Madrid. The city is preparing for its annual Cabalgata de Reyes Magos, the parade of the Three Kings, which traditionally draws huge crowds and transforms the Spanish capital into a fairytale setting. This year, organizers plan to amaze not only with the event’s scale, but also with an eco-friendly approach: all floats will run exclusively on renewable energy. This is more than just a parade—it’s a spectacular show with something for everyone.
Fifteen colorful floats will take part in the procession, accompanied by an impressive cast of 2,100 participants. Among them are 250 pages who will hand out 1,200 kilograms of vibrant candies to children and adults alike. Last year, over 300,000 people filled the streets, and judging by the excitement, this year’s crowd will be just as large. The festive spirit, sense of wonder, and sweet aroma of caramel already fill the air.
Theme and characters
This year, the parade’s motto is “El saber compartido”—“The knowledge we share.” Organizers have chosen to highlight culture, literature, and the transmission of knowledge. The floats will feature images of Don Quijote, as well as characters inspired by the works of Jules Verne. This is no coincidence: Madrid aims to remind everyone that the holiday is not just about fun, but also about reflecting on the value of education and generosity of spirit.
Each float tells its own story—from fantasy worlds to classic characters and modern interpretations. All of this unfolds with music, dance, and dazzling light effects. No child will leave indifferent, and adults will feel transported back to their childhood for a moment.
Route and Schedule
The parade begins sharply at 18:00 on Paseo de la Castellana in the Nuevos Ministerios area. From there, the procession will continue through Plaza de San Juan de la Cruz, Plaza del Doctor Marañón, Glorieta de Emilio Castelar, Plaza de Colón, and Paseo de Recoletos before concluding at Plaza de Cibeles.
The finish is expected around 21:00 near Madrid City Hall—Palacio de Cibeles. It’s here that the Three Kings will deliver their traditional message to the city’s children. Along the route, 8,000 seats will be set up in the stands, and at the final point—about 2,500 seats. Still, as experience shows, the best memories often belong to those walking along the route and catching candy on the fly.
Where to Watch
If you can’t make it to the city streets, don’t worry. The parade will be broadcast live on La 1 and RTVE Play, with coverage starting at 18:00. It’s a perfect way to soak in the festive atmosphere even if you’re far from the action.
Organizers warn that due to the parade, several central streets will be closed to traffic. Residents and visitors are advised to plan routes in advance and use public transport. Still, this spectacle is worth putting up with a bit of inconvenience.
Sustainability and Innovation
This year, the parade also set an example for environmental responsibility. All floats were powered by renewable energy, reducing emissions by 90% compared to previous years. This step is more than just a trend—it’s a meaningful contribution to the city’s future. Madrid proves that tradition and caring for the planet can go hand in hand.
It’s details like these that make the Three Kings Parade more than just a celebration—it’s an event that unites generations and inspires change. Once again, Madrid shows that miracles happen where they are awaited and where preparations are made with heart.
