Puebla is set to celebrate its beloved tradition with the 2025 Desfile de Reyes Magos (Three Kings Day Parade) on January 4, which promises to be more spectacular than ever. The parade, organized by the Ayuntamiento de Puebla and the Sistema Municipal DIF, will begin at 18:30 hours at Avenida Juárez, making its way through the city before ending at Calle 6 Norte, near El Parián.
According to Raúl de la Mora, the spokesperson for the event, the parade will feature ten elaborately themed floats and performances from ten school bands, culminating with over 1,200 students participating. The excitement among families is palpable, as children eagerly await the arrival of the Three Wise Men—Melchor, Gaspar, and Baltasar—who represent the three continents of Europe, Asia, and Africa. Each Wise Man carries significant gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh, beating the drums of symbolism and festivity all around.
Citing tradition as the heartbeat of this event, local officials have emphasized its importance to families, especially the children who look forward to seeing their diet of sweets from the Rosca de Reyes. The city's mayor pointed out, "The Desfile de Reyes iniciará en la Avenida Juárez y continuará por Reforma para llegar al Zócalo para el espectáculo en drones," hinting at the exciting entertainment awaiting locals.
This year, to promote safety and enjoyment, the event will feature enhanced measures, including the deployment of 238 personnel from the Secretaría de Seguridad Ciudadana (SCC) to maintain order and manage road closures. The closures begin at 16:00 hours, allowing ample time for spectators to find ideal viewing spots. Recommended alternate routes include Boulevard Atlixco and Avenida 25 Oriente-Poniente.
For the first time, the sky above Puebla will light up with 140 drones performing two mesmerizing shows instead of the traditional fireworks display, which has led to environmental concerns—as noted by local authorities, "No habrá fuegos artificiales... debido a que esta contamina el aire." This innovative choice also ensures the safety of families and pets attending the parade.
Children will have the opportunity to drop letters to the Reyes Magos at special mailboxes located along the parade route. This replaces the tradition of releasing balloons as a nod to environmental consciousness. Instead, families can walk away with cherished memories and perhaps find their wishes come true when the kings pass by.
Following the excitement of the parade, another celebration is set for January 5, when attendees can gather for the cutting of the monumental Rosca de Reyes. This massive cake, measuring over two kilometers long and weighing four tons, will be displayed prominently at the Zócalo. Just like the parade preceding it, this event encapsulates the community's spirit and commitment to keeping traditions alive.
Attendees are encouraged to arrive early and prepare for delays as roadside safety will be prioritized, ensuring every family can enjoy the magic of the day safely. Local traffic regulations will complement the festivities to allow for smooth transportation around the city's main roads.
Puebla's Desfile de Reyes Magos is not just about floats and festivities; it's about creating connections between families and the cultural legacy they cherish. This year, as children sip their milk and nibble their cookies for the Wise Men, the city will come alive with excitement, joy, and the festive spirit of the Three Kings Day. Mixing history with innovation, Puebla continues to pride itself on its rich traditions, promising joy, nostalgia, and dazzling spectacles for all ages.