Epiphany: The True End of the Christmas Season

The Christmas carol's '12 days of Christmas' refers to the period extending from Christmas Day to the observance of Epiphany, also known as Three Kings Day. This significant Christian holiday falls on January 6th, marking the end of the festive season and commemorating the visit of the Magi—Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar—to the infant Jesus. Their arrival signified Jesus being revealed to the world, a pivotal moment in Christian theology.

Celebrations for Three Kings Day are rich and varied across different cultures and Christian denominations. While the Catholic Church may observe it on the first Sunday of the new year, and Orthodox traditions follow the Julian calendar for January 19th, common practices in the U.S. include attending church services and family gatherings. International traditions, such as Puerto Rico's gift-giving ritual for children or France's 'la galette des rois' cake with a hidden prize, showcase diverse ways this holiday is honored.

Furthermore, Three Kings Day initiates the Mardi Gras season, commencing on January 6th and building towards Fat Tuesday. This connection signifies a transition from the solemnity of Christmas to the revelry of Carnival. In essence, Three Kings Day serves as a final, meaningful observance of the Christmas period, rich with historical significance and cultural traditions.