Escalating Happiness by Spending Epiphany in Spain
Epiphany, or better known as the twelfth day of Christmas, falls on January 6 and thereby marks the official termination to the prolonged festive season for Christians and many non-Christians. The Twelfth Night or Epiphany is symbolised as a visit to the baby Jesus by the three Kings also known as the Wise Men. The term ‘Epiphany’ originates from the Greek word, meaning to show, denoting to Christ being revealed to the world. Many countries celebrate this particular day as the “twelfth night” and the Monday after epiphany is often regarded as “plough Monday”. The delight of being in Spain during Epiphany is beyond words, as Spain manages to celebrate Epiphany equally well as the celebration of Christmas each year. But one can certainly indulge in a few things during Epiphany while in Spain.
- The last minute rush to epiphany shopping – Shopping centres in Malaga will stay up and remain open till the very late hours to justify the priority of this beautiful festival. The sale starts from the 26th of December and will last till the last day of the festival. Many last minute shoppers indulge in the hustle bustle, thereby making Epiphany in Spain a total worth.
- The early tradition– Children in Spain follow their kings, through the streets of the entire epiphany eve. Parades across the country along with bands, and live music, with people sporting in medieval dresses banging drums and dancing across the streets dressed as clowns and puppets. Sweets would be distributed and thrown from the parade, collected not only by youngsters but also adults. Children place empty shoes with grains and straws at night which are replaced by cookies and gifts by the parents, similar to Christmas.
- Some sweet tooth-The traditional cake baked on the day of Epiphany is called “Roscón de Reyes”. The best part, each and every shop and bakery houses have this finest tasting sweet dish. Very similar to doughnuts, these cakes are a bit over sized in shape, but are of dried texture, topped with sugar and lots of fruit slices. This makes the desert even better, and henceforth a traditional bite of happiness for all!
- The Cabalgata(three king day parade) – The three king day parade, also known as the Cabalgata de Reyes, is celebrated extensively in Malaga and major parts of Spain. The parade runs right through the famous historic centre, attracting huge number of crowd. Candies ae distributed from the parade, not only to children but even adults indulge in the festival and brings out the child in them. One of the craziest things to do in Spain during Epiphany is attending this parade. Don’t forget to bring in as much number of carriable bags as possible, because you will be flooded wit candies, and happiness of course.
- Shoes out, gifts in – The traditional Epiphany festival is alike Christmas. Instead of socks, keep the shoes handy, and get ready to get candies and cookies in return. The shoes are kept outside with grains and straws filled in it, which are replaced by candies and cookies. Crazy moments like these make up to great memories for children during Epiphany.
- Time for friends and family – The arrival of Epiphany marks the end of the festive season. But nevertheless, it is always wonderful and peaceful spending time with friends and folks. With a warm welcome to ‘plough Monday’ the very next day, it is probably the best way to wind up the festive season, spreading chuckles and laughter.