Yesterday the “Reyes Magos” the three kings arrived here in Spain. They replace the tradition of Santa Claus even though I am quite sure that most children get presents twice rather than having to make the choice. In the bigger cities it is a massive event. A big parade takes place and kids line the whole route waiting for Melchor, Gaspar, and Balthazar. When they arrive they are throwing sweets and toys to the eagerly awaiting children, dressed up in all their garb. Quite impressive in the larger cities with floats, thousands of kids and parents.

Today is “Día de los Reyes” the day of the three kings where the children open the presents in the morning that the kings might have left for them. It really is very Santa Claus like, and I wonder what kids believe in here in Spain. Both? One of them? I must ask some of my Spanish friends how it all works.

In our village I saw last year how it was just a little dumper truck driving around the streets with the 3 kings on it throwing boiled sweets. A rather more simple and demure affair than the Malaga one and I really don’t think any of the kids where left breathless by the whole experience.

And check out this picture I found. Looks like a Lego version of the three kings with their respective presents. I wonder if Lego also does the whole nativity scene?