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The streets of Torrevieja came alive with magic and joy as the Three Wise Men graced the city with their spectacular annual parade. More than fifteen thousand residents and visitors gathered to witness this enchanting event, which brought a wave of excitement and imagination to both children and adults.
This year, the arrival of Their Majesties, the Three Wise Men from the East, took place in an unusual but beautifully transformed area of the city’s port. Punctually, they arrived aboard the “Espejo de Torrevieja,” a vessel from the local company “Marítimas Torrevieja.”
The mayor, Eduardo Dolón, along with Rosario Martínez Chazarra, the councillor for Festivities, warmly welcomed them. Following the mayoral greeting, the Wise Men climbed onto their floats, to circulate among the eager children who had been anxiously awaiting their appearance.
The Royal Parade got underway at Paseo Vista Alegre and followed a reversed route this year. As always, it was led by the Local Police, Civil Guard, and Firefighters. The procession opened with “La Estafeta de Correos Real,” where officials carefully sorted letters, accompanied by a lively dance troupe heralding the arrival of the Wise Men. Next came a whimsical display of elves dancing with gifts, paving the way for the “Toy Factory.”
The second part of the parade showcased traditional elements of a living Nativity scene. A charming “chestnut seller” and her helpers distributed roasted chestnuts, while the Wishing Well and a bakery handed out freshly baked rolls to spectators. The procession continued with a recreation of the Nativity, featuring Mary, Joseph, and the Child. Traditional salt jars and a group of Jewish figures with donkeys distributed over 2,000 Spanish flags, reviving a beloved Torrevieja tradition and thrilling the crowd.
Adding to the spectacle was a military parade by the Roman legion of Crevillente, which led to King Herod’s arrival on horseback. Dancers accompanied by violin music stunned the audience with their elegant and vibrant performance, signalling the approach of the Star of Bethlehem.
The highlight of the parade was the grand entrance of the Three Wise Men—Melchior, Gaspar, and Balthazar—on their majestic floats. Their entourages delighted children by distributing hundreds of kilograms of candy. The festive atmosphere was further enriched by the melodies of music bands, including “Los Salerosos,” the Band of the Musical Union of Rojales, and the Musical Group “Vibrato,” who filled the air with Christmas carols.
The celebration reached its spiritual peak at the Nativity scene, where the Mayor, Parish Priest José Antonio Gea, and Councillor Rosario Martínez joined the Wise Men in adoring the Child Jesus. The Kings presented their traditional gifts of Gold, Incense, and Myrrh. Speaking on behalf of the three, Melchior expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and delivered heartfelt wishes for peace and happiness, addressing both Spanish and English-speaking children.
The festivities concluded in the Town Hall’s Plenary Hall, where the Mayor hosted a toast with the Kings, councillors, and the Parish Priest, who praised the event’s success. A special acknowledgment was given to the more than seventy security personnel, including police, firefighters, health workers, and volunteers, whose efforts ensured the event ran smoothly. The evening left Torrevieja basking in the glow of a truly magical celebration.
Images courtesy of objectivotorrevieja.es
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