The procession of the Three Kings on camels, accompanied by drummers and trumpeters, will recall the legendary journey of the wise men to Bethlehem. “The Three Kings procession is not only a beautiful tradition, but also an opportunity to draw attention to the needs of people in distress. Last year, thanks to the generosity of donors, over 175 million crowns were raised as part of the national Three Kings collection, which helped finance social services for seniors, mothers with children in need, and homeless people,” says Pavel Šimek, deputy director of the Archdiocesan Charity Prague.
Program of the Three Kings procession:
- 15:00 – Blessing of the Three Kings collectors at St. Thomas Church, officiated by Prague Archbishop Jan Graubner
- 15:30 – Start of the procession at Malostranské náměstí
- 16:45 – Conclusion at Old Town Square with a ceremonial speech by the Prague Archbishop and with Czech Christmas music by J. J. Ryba performed by the St. James Choir and orchestra conducted by Jan Rezek with soloists from the National Theatre
Route of the procession: Malostranské náměstí - Charles Bridge - Mariánské náměstí - Old Town Square
The Three Kings collection is the largest charitable fundraising event in the Czech Republic. The charity uses its proceeds to help the sick, disabled, seniors, mothers with children in need, and others in need, primarily in the regions where the collection takes place. Ten percent of the proceeds from the collection is allocated for humanitarian and development aid abroad.