When is Three Kings Day celebrated?

Three Kings Day, also known as Epiphany, is traditionally celebrated on January 6th, but some denominations observe it on the first Sunday of the new year or January 19th.

Who are the Three Kings?

The Three Kings, or Magi, are Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar. They are known for visiting the infant Jesus to worship him and present gifts.

What traditions are associated with Three Kings Day?

Traditions include church services, feasts, and unique customs like leaving hay for the kings' horses in Spain or special cakes in France.

Home / Lifestyle / Epiphany: The True End of the Christmas Season

Epiphany: The True End of the Christmas Season

7 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Three Kings Day, or Epiphany, marks the end of the Christmas season.
It commemorates the Magi's visit to the infant Jesus and his revelation.
Celebrations vary globally, from feasts to gift-giving traditions.

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.