Artistic rendering – Event may differ
Alcoy Kings Parade
Step back in time at the Alcoy Kings Parade, a historic spectacle dating back to 1866 and officially celebrated since 1885. This UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event brings the magic of the Three Wise Men to life on January 5th. Witness a breathtaking procession with over a thousand participants, including traditional music, dance, and the iconic delivery of gifts by pages scaling ladders to balconies. The parade culminates in a solemn Adoration ceremony in the Plaza de España, complete with fireworks and Handel's 'Messiah'.
What to Expect
One of the world's oldest continuously celebrated Three Kings Parades.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: FREE
- Accessibility: https://www.alcoi.org/es/areas/accesibilidad/index.html
- Pets: No pets allowed
Other Christmas Events Near Alcoi
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, history enthusiasts, cultural explorers
Vibe
Traditional, magical, historic, community-focused
Energy Level
Moderate to high
Budget
FREE
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
High
Special Events & Promotions
- UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event
- Adoration of the Child Jesus ceremony
- Gift delivery via ladders to balconies
Location
Event Details
Duration
Evening event, approximately 4 hours
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- Corporación Musical Primitiva
- Sociedad Música Nueva
- Unión Musical
- Grupo de danzas 'Carrascal'
- Grupo de danzas 'Sant Jordi'
Organizer
Ayuntamiento de Alcoy (City Council of Alcoy)
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, especially along the main parade route through El Camí, Sant Nicolau, and Plaça d'Espanya.
- Dress warmly as the event takes place on a January evening; consider bringing blankets for comfort.
- Be prepared for crowds, particularly in the Plaça d'Espanya for the Adoration ceremony and fireworks.
- Familiarize yourself with the parade route beforehand to plan your viewing location and potential exit points.
- Keep an eye out for the 'els negres' pages who deliver gifts; it's a unique and memorable part of the tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Alcoy Kings Parade?
It is one of the oldest continuously celebrated Three Kings Parades in the world, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event held annually on January 5th.
When does the parade start and end?
The parade begins around 6:00 PM and concludes around 10:00 PM, with a significant break in the Plaça d'Espanya for the Adoration ceremony.
Is there an admission fee for the parade?
No, the Alcoy Kings Parade is a free event for all attendees.
What are the main highlights of the parade?
Key highlights include the arrival of the Three Wise Men on camels, the unique gift delivery by pages using ladders, and the Adoration ceremony with fireworks.
What is the significance of the 'els negres'?
'Els negres' are pages responsible for delivering gifts to children, often using ladders to reach balconies, which is a distinctive tradition of this parade.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.