Three Kings Day / Epiphany
PR · 2027
About Three Kings Day / Epiphany
Epiphany is a Christian holiday celebrated on January 6th, commemorating the visit of the Magi (the Three Wise Men or Three Kings) to the baby Jesus. It marks the end of the Christmas season, traditionally twelve days after Christmas Day.
In Western Christianity, Epiphany primarily celebrates the arrival of the Magi and the revelation of Christ to the Gentiles. In Eastern Orthodox Christianity, Theophany (celebrated on January 6th or 19th) centers on the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River.
Epiphany is a public holiday in many countries including Austria, Italy, Spain, Croatia, Poland, Slovakia, and some parts of Germany and Switzerland. In Spain and Latin America, it is the primary gift-giving day — children receive gifts from the Three Kings rather than Santa Claus.
Quick Facts
- Date 2027
- January 6, 2027
- Day
- Wednesday
- Type
- Public
- Scope
- National
- Fixed Date
- No — date changes each year
- Local Name
- Día de Reyes
- Traditions
- Three Kings parades · Gift giving · King's Cake · Blessing of water
When is Three Kings Day / Epiphany?
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | January 6, 2025 | Monday |
| 2026 | January 6, 2026 | Tuesday |
| 2027This year | January 6, 2027 | Wednesday |
How is Three Kings Day / Epiphany Celebrated?
In Spain and Latin American countries, January 6th — Día de Reyes (Three Kings Day) — is the main Christmas gift-giving occasion, with large parades of the Three Kings the evening before. Children leave their shoes out for the kings to fill with gifts.
In France, a special cake called Galette des Rois (King's Cake) is shared, with a small figurine hidden inside — whoever finds it becomes king or queen for the day. Similar king cake traditions exist in many other countries including the United States' Mardi Gras celebrations.
Did You Know?
- •The word 'Epiphany' comes from the Greek 'epiphaneia,' meaning 'manifestation' or 'appearance.'
- •The Bible does not specify how many Magi there were — the number three comes from the three gifts (gold, frankincense, and myrrh).
- •In Italy, the tradition of La Befana has an old witch delivering gifts to children on Epiphany Eve.
- •Orthodox Christians in some countries celebrate Epiphany with the blessing of bodies of water, including rivers and seas.
- •In Germany, 'star singers' (children dressed as the Three Kings) go from house to house collecting for charity on Epiphany.
Other Holidays in PR 2027
Frequently Asked Questions
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