Benidorm was one of many towns and cities across Spain that held a Three Kings parade yesterday evening (Wednesday 5) – with Melchor, Gaspar and Baltasar the stars of the event. Setting off a little after 6pm from Parque de Elche (Dove Park) in the old town, numerous floats were interspersed with animated dance routines and bands. 

The Kings float was a little delayed departing as the lights kept shorting, so an emergency generator had to be found! There were also plenty of animals included in the parade, with shepherds accompanying donkeys and goats whilst this year the geese, ducks and turkey were transported upon a float. 

Thousands (all masked up) lined the entire route, all vying to catch some of the thousands of kilos of sweets thrown out to the crowds long the way by the Kings in the last float. The parade finished at the Julio Iglesias auditorium, where the Three Kings carried the traditional gold, frankincense and myrrh to present to the baby Jesus and the night finished with a grand firework display – because no celebration here in Spain is complete without one! 

With the UK Prime Minister announcing a relaxation in pre-flight testing and Day 2 PCR requirements on Wednesday, it should hopefully signal a return of British holidaymakers to the resort and the green light for hotels and bars to think about re-opening. At present businesses are stuck in a catch 22 situation.