Few nights are as magical as 5 January, when the Three Kings bring the presents in Catalonia and Spain. The kids can’t sleep, the grown-ups pretend they can’t either, and in the morning everyone races to the living room to see what Their Majesties have left. Now imagine that moment in a rural house, with the whole family together, unhurried and with the whole day to play.
At Cal Xolva, in Llardecans, in the Segrià, we suggest rounding off the Christmas holidays with a relaxed Three Kings getaway full of little rituals.
Three Kings 2027: when it falls
In 2027, Three Kings’ Eve is Tuesday 5 January and Three Kings’ Day is Wednesday 6. Many people take the chance to stretch the Christmas holidays and spend one or two nights away before returning to the routine.
The eve: the parade and preparations
Most villages in the area and the city of Lleida, about 30 minutes away, hold their parade (cavalcada) on the evening of 5 January. Check the times with each town council, as they change every year.
Back at the house, it’s time to get ready for the Kings’ arrival:
- Write or go over the letter with the little ones.
- Leave water and food for the camels (and something sweet for the Kings) in the living room.
- Put your shoes where they can be seen, so the Kings know where to leave the presents.
- Go to bed early: the Kings only come in when everyone is asleep.
The morning of 6 January
The best thing about a rural house is that Three Kings’ morning has no schedule. Opening presents in your pyjamas, a long breakfast and, mid-morning, the tortell de Reis (king cake). You know the tradition: whoever finds the little figurine is king of the party, and whoever finds the bean pays for the cake next year.
Ideas for the rest of the day
- Try out the new toys in the living room or, if it’s sunny, on the terrace.
- A walk along the dry farmland paths among olive and almond trees.
- An afternoon of board games with the whole family.
- In the evening, if the sky is clear, some time for stargazing.
Frequently asked questions
Will the Kings find the children if we sleep away from home?
Always! Just tell them in your letter where you’ll be spending the night of 5 January.
How many nights is it best to book?
With two nights, from the 4th to the 6th or from the 5th to 7 January, you can enjoy the parade, Three Kings’ Eve and the 6th at a relaxed pace.
Come to Cal Xolva. Take a look at our rooms and spaces, check our rates and ask us about availability.
