Cabalgata de Reyes Magos (Kings' Day parade)

It's the most anticipated night of the year for kids all over Spain. The Three Kings (known as the Three Wise Men in some circles) arrive in Madrid atop their floats bearing mountains of sweets and gifts. Before them are amazing floats with lights and celebrations galore. If you want to hand deliver your letter to the Kings, there will even be real postmen in the parade to be sure all your wishes come true.

As is tradition, the parade starts at 6.30pm in Nuevos Ministerios at the corner with San Juan de la Cruz, and from there heads down the Paseo de la Castellana crossing Plaza del Doctor Gregorio Marañón, Glorieta de Emilio Castelar, Plaza de Colón, Paseo de Recoletos, and finally finishes at Plaza de Cibeles with the traditional holiday message between 8.30pm and 9pm. Dress warmly and come prepared to catch all the sweets you can! (Kings' Day, January 6, is an official national holiday.)