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Epiphany - Three Kings Day

epiphany

Epiphany, also known as Three Kings Day, celebrates two important events in the life of Jesus Christ: the visit from the three kings to bestow gifts upon him, and his baptism by John the Baptist. Western Christians tend to put more emphasis on the visit of the three kings, whereas Eastern Christians focus more on Christ’s Baptism.

 

Epiphany marks the twelfth day of Christmas and the end of the Christmas season in many parts of the world. In some places, it also marks the beginning of the Carnival season, which ends at Mardi Gras, or Shrove Tuesday. Epiphany is celebrated all around the world, most prevalently in some parts of Europe and Latin America.

 

Traditions and customs vary widely from place to place. In Spanish speaking countries Epiphany is the major gift giving holiday like Christmas in English speaking countries. It is believed that the three kings come to each house and leave gifts for well-behaved children, much like Santa Claus.