The streets of Santa Cruz de Tenerife came alive with colour, light, and excitement last night as the traditional Three Kings Parade took place in the heart of the city. Over 250,000 people, according to municipal estimates, gathered to witness this grand celebration, which took its theme from beloved children's tales and delivered a night to remember.
The festivities began earlier in the evening, when nearly 18,000 people welcomed the Three Kings - Melchior, Gaspar, and Balthazar - at the Heliodoro football stadium.
Shortly after, the parade commenced promptly at 7:00pm from Avenida Bélgica, with the lively tunes of the Banda Unión y Amistad leading the procession. Iconic characters such as Mickey and Minnie Mouse greeted the crowds before a dazzling display of floats and performers swept through the streets.
A Parade of Enchantment
The parade featured 15 meticulously crafted floats, each inspired by cherished stories such as Toy Story, The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, and Alice in Wonderland. They mesmerised onlookers with their bursts of confetti, bubbles, and sparkling streamers, while characters aboard waved to the thrilled children.
Accompanying the floats were over a thousand performers on foot, embodying festive figures like Christmas trees, wrapped presents, snowflakes, and butterflies.
Live marching bands added to the vibrant atmosphere, while the Pasacalle del Mar parade segment introduced colourful inflatable sea creatures, delighting audiences of all ages.
Among the highlights were the floats carrying the Three Kings themselves, greeted by roaring applause, cheers, and calls for more sweets. This year, the royal pages distributed an impressive 2,500 kilograms of gluten-free sweets along the parade route, complemented by 300 kilograms of sugar- and gluten-free treats, distinguished by their blue wrappers.
Inclusive and Accessible Festivities
The event prioritised inclusivity, with special seating areas and fenced-off areas established for spectators. Provisions were made for people with mobility challenges, offering reserved viewing spaces at key locations such as the Plaza de España.
For those with sensory sensitivities, particularly on the autism spectrum, a designated quiet section without amplified sound was set up along part of the route near García Sanabria Park.
A Grand Finale
The parade concluded at the Plaza de España, where the Three Kings performed the traditional act of adoration at a nativity scene set up for the occasion. Following this solemn moment, the Kings prepared to embark on their nightly journey to deliver gifts to the children of Santa Cruz and beyond.
This year’s parade, with its fusion of tradition, creativity, and inclusivity, reaffirmed its place as a cherished event in Tenerife’s festive calendar, leaving a lasting impression on the hearts of thousands who gathered to share in the magic.
