Three Kings Parade (Cabalgata de Reyes) 2026

Mallorca transforms into a wonderland of color, music, and magic on the evening of January 5, 2026, when the beloved Three Kings Parade sweeps through Palma and communities across the island. This enchanting Cabalgata de Reyes represents one of Spain's most cherished family traditions, bringing the story of the Three Wise Men to life through spectacular floats, costumed performers, and generous showers of sweets that delight children and adults alike. For visitors and residents throughout the Balearic Islands, this magical night offers an authentic cultural experience that connects modern Mallorca with centuries of Spanish tradition and Mediterranean celebration.​

The Story Behind Los Reyes Magos

The Three Kings tradition celebrates the Biblical story of the Magi, the three wise men who followed the star of Bethlehem to present gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh to the infant Jesus. In Spanish culture, these figures are known as Los Reyes Magos: Melchior, Gaspar, and Balthazar, each representing different parts of the ancient world and bearing symbolic gifts that honor the newborn king.​

Unlike many countries where Christmas Day marks the primary gift-giving celebration, Spain and its islands maintain the traditional practice of children receiving presents on January 6, the Feast of the Epiphany. The evening of January 5 builds anticipation through the spectacular parades, where the Three Kings make their grand arrival and journey through communities, symbolically delivering hope, joy, and the promise of morning gifts to expectant families.​

Palma's Grand 2026 Parade: Route and Timing

Palma City Council has confirmed the route and schedule for the 2026 Three Kings Parade, with festivities beginning at 6:00 PM on Monday, January 5, 2026. The celebration starts with the traditional dramatic arrival of the Three Kings by boat at Moll Vell, Palma's historic harbor area, recreating their ancient journey across distant lands to reach the island.​

The Parade Route Through Historic Palma

After disembarking at Moll Vell, the Kings lead their magnificent procession through approximately 4 kilometers of Palma's most beautiful streets. The confirmed route travels along the waterfront before entering the historic heart of the Balearic capital, passing iconic landmarks that showcase the city's architectural heritage.​

The parade typically progresses through Avinguda Antoni Maura, offering spectacular views with the Cathedral backdrop, before continuing along the elegant Passeig del Born, one of Palma's most famous boulevards. From there, the procession winds through Carrer de la Unió, La Rambla, and continues via Passeig Mallorca and Jaume III before culminating at Plaça Cort, where Palma's City Hall stands.​

At approximately 8:15 PM, the Three Kings arrive at the City Hall, where they greet children from the balcony of Casal Solleric in a cherished moment that marks the parade's emotional climax. Following this royal greeting, Their Majesties receive children who wish to personally share their gift wishes in the Plenary Hall of the town hall, creating intimate moments within the grand public celebration.​

Spectacular Floats and Festive Performances

The 2026 Palma parade features seventeen elaborately designed floats organized around ten distinct themes. These creative displays range from traditional nativity scenes and religious symbolism to timeless fairy tales, heritage toys, and even playful elements like a coal float reserved for children who have been particularly naughty throughout the year.​

Accompanying the colorful procession are approximately 300 entertainers including musicians, dancers, drummers, and performers in period costumes who bring energy and spectacle to the parade route. Some floats incorporate special effects such as enchanted forests with magic mushrooms and cauldrons, butterflies that appear to fly overhead, and theatrical lighting that transforms the evening streets into a magical realm.​

The Sweet Tradition: Candy for the Crowds

One of the parade's most beloved traditions involves volunteers on floats generously tossing sweets to the crowds lining the streets. Families bring small bags or totes to collect these treats, with children positioned safely behind barrier lines where they can enjoy the spectacle while catching candy thrown by the Kings' helpers. This generous distribution of sweets symbolizes the abundance and generosity that the Three Kings represent, sharing joy with all who gather to welcome them.​

Three Kings Celebrations Across the Island

While Palma hosts Mallorca's largest and most elaborate Cabalgata de Reyes, towns and villages throughout the island organize their own charming parades on January 5, each reflecting local character and community spirit.​

Northern Coast Communities

Port de Pollença and Pollença both celebrate the Kings' arrival at 6:30 PM, offering family-friendly atmospheres in these picturesque northern towns. Alcúdia welcomes the Three Kings at the port at 6:15 PM, with Their Majesties continuing on horseback to the historic Old Town for a 7:30 PM arrival. These coastal arrivals capture the maritime tradition of the Kings journeying across waters to reach the island.​

Sóller's Unique Morning Celebration

Port de Sóller offers a distinctive variation with the Kings arriving at 11:00 AM on January 5, making this an excellent option for families with young children who might find evening celebrations challenging. The parade then continues in the town of Sóller at 5:00 PM, allowing residents and visitors to experience both waterfront and mountain village celebrations on the same day.​

Central and Eastern Towns

Inca, Manacor, and Artà all host kid-friendly parades that showcase authentic Mallorcan traditions in settings less crowded than Palma, perfect for families seeking more intimate cultural experiences. These interior towns offer easier parking, more relaxed viewing opportunities, and genuine local atmospheres where island traditions continue much as they have for generations.​

Cultural Significance and Island Heritage

The Three Kings celebration represents far more than colorful entertainment for Mallorca's communities. This tradition connects the island to its deep Catholic heritage while serving as an annual reaffirmation of family bonds, community solidarity, and the values of generosity and hope that transcend religious boundaries.​

January 5 ranks among Mallorca's biggest family nights, when generations gather along parade routes, children dress in their finest clothes, and communities collectively participate in a shared cultural experience that defines island identity. The celebration bridges Mallorca's international tourism reputation with its authentic local character, revealing the traditions that shape daily life beyond the summer beach season.​

The Gift-Giving Tradition

Following the parade, Mallorcan families return home where children leave their shoes by windows or balconies, often placing treats for the Kings and their camels. They may also leave grass or water for the animals that carried the Magi on their long journey. On the morning of January 6, children awaken to find presents left by the Kings, traditionally accompanied by Roscón de Reyes, a special ring-shaped cake that marks the Epiphany feast.​

This gift-giving custom maintains the original Christmas story's timeline more accurately than December 25 celebrations, as the Three Kings historically arrived in Bethlehem approximately twelve days after Christ's birth. Many Mallorcan families appreciate this tradition's deeper historical and religious authenticity while enjoying the extended Christmas celebration period.

Planning Your Three Kings Experience in Palma

Attending the Three Kings Parade requires some strategic planning to maximize enjoyment while navigating the crowds that flock to this popular event. Arriving between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM allows time to find good viewing positions before the parade begins, with opportunities to grab snacks and settle children comfortably.​

Best Viewing Locations

The harbor arrival at Moll Vell offers the most dramatic atmosphere as the Three Kings disembark from their boat, creating memorable photo opportunities against the waterfront setting. However, this area fills quickly with spectators eager to witness the symbolic arrival.​

Passeig del Born provides excellent viewing with its wide boulevard allowing good visibility and photo opportunities, though this central location attracts significant crowds. Avinguda Antoni Maura and the areas near Parc de la Mar offer Cathedral backdrops for stunning photographs while maintaining good sightlines to the parade route.​

For families seeking less congested viewing, positioning one or two streets beyond the main parade axis provides easier crowd management, better access to facilities, and simpler exits when young children tire. These peripheral locations still offer complete parade views while reducing stress associated with dense crowds.​

Transportation and Logistics

Palma's EMT bus system adds extra services on main lines during the parade, though visitors should expect delays and road closures throughout the city center. Taxis from Palma Airport (PMI) take approximately 15 to 25 minutes to reach central viewing areas under normal conditions, though parade evening traffic extends travel times.​

Driving to the parade requires parking in peripheral areas or underground car parks with plans to walk 10 to 15 minutes to the route. Families should establish meeting points at recognizable landmarks like the Born lions or Cathedral steps before crowds intensify, ensuring everyone can reconnect if separated.​

What to Bring and Wear

January evenings in Mallorca can be crisp, requiring layers and warm clothing despite the island's mild Mediterranean climate. Bringing thin scarves, jackets, and comfortable shoes for standing or walking along the route ensures comfort throughout the multi-hour celebration.​

Small bags or totes allow children to collect candy thrown from floats, though parents should keep treats sealed until later to avoid sticky hands on cobblestone streets. Cash for kiosks and street vendors complements card payments accepted at cafes, providing flexibility for snacks, hot chocolate, or impromptu souvenir purchases.​

After the Parade: Extending the Magic

Following the parade's conclusion at Plaça Cort, families can warm up with hot chocolate or enjoy light dinners at restaurants throughout Palma's Old Town. The festive atmosphere continues well into the evening as crowds disperse through the historic center, with many establishments offering special Epiphany menus and extended hours to accommodate celebrants.​

January 6 is a public holiday throughout Spain, allowing families to sleep in after the late parade before gathering for traditional Epiphany meals and gift opening. Many Palma attractions remain open on this holiday, offering opportunities to explore the island's cultural sites, beaches, or countryside while enjoying the relaxed post-celebration atmosphere.​

Experience Mallorca's Most Magical Night

The Three Kings Parade 2026 in Mallorca invites you to step inside one of Spain's most beloved traditions, where ancient stories come alive through spectacular modern celebration. Whether you choose Palma's grand harbor arrival and elaborate procession or intimate village parades in communities across the island, this magical evening reveals the authentic heart of Balearic culture that makes Mallorca special beyond its beaches and resorts.

January 5, 2026 offers a once-a-year opportunity to witness this enchanting tradition, share in the joy of thousands of island families, and create your own memories of the night the Three Kings brought magic to the Mediterranean. Don't miss this extraordinary cultural experience that defines Mallorca's winter season and connects modern island life with centuries of Spanish heritage.

Mark your calendar now for Monday evening, January 5, 2026. Plan your arrival in Palma or choose your favorite Mallorcan town. Prepare to collect candy, marvel at spectacular floats, and join the crowds welcoming Their Majesties from the East. The Three Kings are coming to Mallorca, and the island's most magical night awaits your presence.

Verified Information at Glance

Event Category: Cultural Celebration / Family Festival / Religious Tradition

Event Name: Three Kings Parade (Cabalgata de Reyes / Los Reyes Magos)

Confirmed Date: Monday, January 5, 2026​

Holiday: January 6, 2026 (Epiphany / Día de Reyes) is a public holiday​

Palma Start Time: 6:00 PM (18:00)​

Palma Starting Point: Moll Vell (harbor arrival by boat)​

Parade Route: Moll Vell → Avinguda Antoni Maura → Passeig del Born → Carrer de la Unió → La Rambla → Passeig Mallorca → Jaume III → Plaça Cort​

Royal Greeting: Approximately 8:15 PM at Casal Solleric balcony, Plaça Cort​

Parade Length: Approximately 4 kilometers through central Palma​

Floats: 17 themed floats for 2026​

Performers: Approximately 300 musicians, dancers, and entertainers​

Admission: Free public event​

Other Island Locations: Port de Pollença (6:30 PM), Pollença (6:30 PM), Alcúdia (6:15 PM port arrival), Port de Sóller (11:00 AM), Sóller (5:00 PM), Inca, Manacor, Artà​

Expected Attendance: Thousands of residents and visitors​

Best Viewing Areas: Moll Vell (harbor), Passeig del Born, Avinguda Antoni Maura, Parc de la Mar area​

Parking: Peripheral areas and underground car parks with 10-15 minute walk to route​

Airport Distance: 15-25 minutes from Palma Airport (PMI) to central Palma by taxi​

Weather: Cool January evening; layers and warm clothing recommended​

Family Features: Sweet distribution, themed floats, special effects, meet-and-greet with Kings at City Hall​