The Three Wise Men in Spanish tradition.
As Spanish tradition has it, the three wise men of Biblical lore are the ones who bring good little children their presents and they do so on the eve of Epiphany, known in Spain as día de los Reyes Magos or simply día de Reyes.
Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar (from Asia, Europe and Africa, respectively), the three Kings of the East, ride through each city and town in Spain on camelback on the night of January 5th and deliver presents to Spanish children. It is customary to leave out some drink and food (usually wine and sweets) on a plate for them and their camels. On the following day, the plates appear clean and in place of the food are gifts. Families also leave their shoes in a line and awake to find each of them filled with presents for the whole family.
The roscón de Reyes.
Parades called cabalgatas are held on the night of January 5th in which the three wise men ride through each town in Spain on floats, followed by their squires, dancers and many other performance artists. From atop their floats they toss treats out to the throngs of children and their families who gather to watch them go by. On día de Reyes, the day of January 6th, one of the most beloved traditions in Spain is celebrated: the roscón de Reyes! The roscón is a big doughnut-shaped pastry with two surprises inside: a figurine and a bean. Whoever finds the figurine gets crowned King or Queen with a cardboard crown, but whoever finds the bean has to pay for the pastry.
Spanish culture is as rich as it is rewarding to partake in, and the Spanish are known for their openness in sharing their culture with others. Many Spanish abroad courses in Spain come with free culture workshops that teach students all about the many charming traditions of Spanish society. The Spanish are always impressed to find a foreigner who takes interest in their language and culture and are themselves eager to learn more about other cultures. This is part of what makes Spain one of the most popular study abroad destinations for students around the world.
