The 5th of January is an intriguing date. From early on, there is a certain restlessness in the air. Nerves jangle stomachs and it seems as though the hours crawl by slower than normal. On this day, the eve of the arrival of the Three Wise Men, it is a special occasion for the little ones at home. Neither Halloween nor Santa Claus, both of whom have carved out their place in the emotional landscape of the Canary Islands in recent years, can compare to the excitement with which children await Melchior, Gaspar and Baltasar. Alongside them, of course, are their parents, grandparents, and relatives, determined to do anything to see their expressions of hope.
La Laguna, the city of the Adelantados, has long prided itself on hosting one of the most extraordinary Three Kings parades in the Archipelago. Everything is perfect in this city: the climate, its cobbled pedestrian streets, stunning Christmas decorations, and the grand mansions and palaces that adorn its historic centre. This Sunday, this town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, once again surrendered to what we call the joy of Christmas, which the little ones quickly recognise as magic.
Gabriel, who stood patiently with his parents awaiting the start of the procession outside the Sanctuary of Christ, asked if those were indeed the real Three Wise Men. It is well known that sometimes Their Majesties must send their assistants in order to be present in all the towns across the Island on the eve of their arrival. His mother replied with conviction, “Of course, you simply didn’t see their faces.” “And where is the magic?” the little boy inquired. The magic, his mother explained, is what Melchior, Gaspar, and Baltasar use to visit every home in just a few hours and leave the anticipated gifts. However, there was also a touch of magic present in the La Laguna parade. Magic, first of all, to find a parking space. Once this initial feat was accomplished, the magic and proximity of the Three Wise Men was revealed, as they first attended the traditional act of adoration of the Child Jesus at the Christ.
In spite of the great task ahead, the three Kings welcomed each boy and girl who approached them in the Sanctuary one by one. They posed for photos and listened to any last-minute requests. There is always a toy that couldn’t be included in the letter, and a last-minute reminder is always essential.
The La Laguna City Council revived a route that had not been carried out since 1989, 36 years ago: Plaza del Cristo, Nava y Grimón (known as Calle del Agua), Obispo Rey Redondo, Hermanos Marrero, Herradores, Consistorio, back to Nava and Grimón, concluding once again in Cristo, the focal point of this year’s Christmas festivities.
Punctually, with just 2 minutes remaining until 6:00 p.m., the Local Police motorcycle escort marked the commencement of the Great Parade. There was a batucada led by Bloko, magnificent white horses, stilt walkers, superheroes, and a float celebrating Avatar and Bluey, one of the most popular of the afternoon. The firefighters also contributed, transporting gift packages on one of their trucks. Everyone participated in this celebration for the Kings amid one of the most crowded parades in recent years. In total: 500 participants and nine floats.
The Three Wise Men arrive in San Cristóbal de La Laguna / The Day
Once again, the City Council provided an area for People with Reduced Mobility (PMR) in the Plaza del Adelantado. A quieter section of the Parade was also arranged – along Nava y Grimón Street, from Plaza del Cristo to Pedro Pinto de la Rosa Street – to enhance the experience for individuals with autism spectrum disorder or other sensitivities.
Their Majesties enjoyed an unforgettable evening in La Laguna. They arrived in the morning, receiving a warm welcome in the plenary hall of the Consistory to sign the honorary book for the first time. Following this formal event, they embarked on a walking tour along Carrera Street to the La Concepción church. Next to the temple tower, Mayor Luis Yeray Gutiérrez presented them with the magic keys to the city, enabling them to distribute all their gifts.
Meanwhile, in Tejina, residents celebrated one of their most cherished traditions: the representation of the Car of the Three Wise Men. This marked the first edition since this age-old example of popular theatre was granted the designation of Asset of Cultural Interest (BIC). The performance was also streamed live on social networks.
In summary, it was a day meticulously crafted for the little ones to experience one of those unforgettable parades, which they will surely cherish as among their most treasured memories. The celebrations of the Three Wise Men also signify the conclusion of the Christmas festivities and their bustling commercial campaign.
