The Three Wise Men flew more than Seville in a hot air balloon on Tuesday morning, soon after regular street parades on the eve of the Epiphany have been cancelled all through Spain to stay away from drawing huge crowds amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Melchior, Caspar and Balthazar are extensively celebrated in Spain on Epiphany (January 6), when they are stated to have visited the infant Christ with gold, frankincense and myrrh.
On that day kids get presents their parents inform them have been brought by the Three Wise Men, and not Santa Claus – even if the latter has also develop into increasingly common in Spain.
Balthazar was impersonated by a white man with black face paint, as is normally the case in Epiphany celebrations in some Spanish cities. The practice has not drawn the identical degree of controversy and condemnation as the “Black Pete” Christmas character in the Netherlands – a fictional character generally portrayed by white persons wearing black face paint and which is steadily disappearing.
After flying more than Seville and waving at kids watching from their properties, the Wise Men stated they hoped they would be back with a suitable parade subsequent year.
“It has been an amazing flight. We come with huge enthusiasm to deliver all the presents,” Caspar told .
The 3 urged all persons to comply with overall health suggestions.
“You must follow the rules because soon enough we will be able to take off our masks and be able to give each other kisses and hugs and spread love all over Seville. Be prepared, 2021 is the year to end the pandemic and enjoy life,” Melchior stated.