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Local News
02 January 2025

Sevilla Moves Cabalgata De Reyes Magos Due To Rain

Historic date change ensures celebration amid weather concerns for January 2025.

Sevilla's cherished Cabalgata de Reyes Magos is facing its first-ever date change due to adverse weather forecasts, with the traditional celebration now scheduled for January 4, 2025, instead of its usual January 5 date. This decision was made by the Junta Directiva del Ateneo de Sevilla, who cited predictions of rain as the primary reason for the historic shift.

The Heraldo Real, which serves as the precursor to the Cabalgata, will now proceed on January 3 at 17:45. The main event, featuring the beloved characters Melchor, Gaspar, and Baltasar, will commence from the Rectorado de la Universidad at 16:15 on January 4. The local authorities are maintaining the original route and timings for both events, aiming to preserve the festive spirit of the holiday.

Concern over the weather has been mounting, as the Agencia Estatal de Meteorología (Aemet) announced there is a 100% chance of rain on January 5. The decision to move the events was not made lightly, as it marks the first time in the Cabalgata's 106-year history the celebratory parade will take place on January 4. According to the Ateneo, the shift was necessary to “guarantee the enjoyment of all Sevillanos,” emphasizing the community's desire to keep the traditions alive.

The announcement came after extensive discussions among the Ateneo de Sevilla, local authorities, and emergency services. The aim was to address the logistical challenges posed by the event, which draws large crowds and traverses the city from end to end. Late-night meetings leading up to the confirmation of the new dates highlighted the potential risks associated with holding both events under forecasted stormy conditions.

A spokesperson from the Ateneo remarked, “A la luz de los últimos partes meteorológicos, se adelanta tanto el Heraldo Real como la Cabalgata de Reyes Magos 24 horas.” This firmly underlines the organization's commitment to ensuring the safety and enjoyment of the attendees, particularly for families eager to partake in the holiday festivities.

Despite initial hesitations and discussions to keep the dates unchanged, the potential for rain was deemed too significant to ignore. Friends and families across Sevilla look forward to celebrating these beloved events, albeit one day earlier than usual.

With the Cabalgata's rich history and tradition woven deeply throughout Sevilla’s cultural fabric, this year’s alteration is expected to be met with mixed feelings but also gratitude for the proactive measures taken by organizers to protect the event.

This change is part of broader weather-related adjustments made by various municipalities across the region, where over twenty areas have also shifted their celebrations to avoid the rain. Smaller towns and cities like Alcalá de Guadaíra, Coria del Río, and many others have opted to follow suit, demonstrating solidarity with Sevilla’s decision.

City officials assured residents and participants alike of their commitment to maintaining the essence and integrity of the Cabalgata, stating, “The services will remain covered, and the hours of participation will stay the same – only the day is changing.” The timely dissemination of this information also allows families to adjust their plans accordingly.

Families and children are eagerly preparing for the earlier festivities, with arrangements being confirmed throughout the community. This year, as the changing climate dictates schedules, the tradition of celebrating the Reyes Magos continues to bring hope and joy to Sevilla's residents.