Christmas celebrations reach a festive finale in the Balearic New Year.

(TRAVPR.COM) UK - December 22nd, 2011 -

When Mallorca’s Christmas parties are over and the population has fully recovered from the excesses of New Year’s Eve, an important traditional celebration of the season is still yet to come.

The famous description of three kings following a star from the orient, may be best remembered for the gifts they bring to the stable at Christmas time. But in fact, they didn’t meet Jesus till a couple of weeks later, on the date best known as Twelfth Night.

The eve of epiphany, January 5th, is celebrated across Spain. In the absence of camels on the island of Mallorca, the three kings arrive from the sea, by boat.

At 7pm, they come ashore at the old harbour Port Vell, then ride through Palma’s streets on very large elaborate floats, decorated with Christmas themes and cartoon characters.

The procession brings a carnival atmosphere, with accompanying musicians and dancers, and a train carrying the kings’ royal servants, handing out small gifts. Meanwhile, a float resembling Santa’s sleigh welcomes Christmas wish-lists, as traditionally, Twelfth Night is the Spanish day for exchanging gifts.

The occasion is perfect for families visiting Mallorca with young children, as the costumed kings shower the crowds with confectionary equivalents of gold, frankincense and myrrh. According to the custom, children awaken next morning to find their presents, left by the kings.

Solmar Villas can provide great value holiday villas in Mallorca for anyone keen to enjoy the island’s gentle New Year climate.

More information about visiting Mallorca can be found at http://www.illesbalears.es/ing/majorca/home.jsp.

About Solmar Villas
Solmar Villas is a family run business, based in the West Midlands, with over 15 years of experience offering high quality villa rentals. Their holiday property portfolio includes the Costa del Sol, Costa Brava, Costa Blanca, Menorca, Mallorca, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Malta and the Algarve.

All Solmar Villas properties are chosen, inspected and approved by their staff and only those meeting the very highest standards are selected. Every holiday villa has a private swimming pool and is conveniently located within walking distance of beaches, restaurants and amenities. Solmar Villas is ATOL protected and a Member of ABTA. For more information call +44 (0)1283 505 710.

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