How Many Days Until Epiphany?
Epiphany 2026 is on Tuesday, January 6, 2026.
About Epiphany
Epiphany, celebrated on January 6th, is a Christian feast day that commemorates the revelation (or manifestation) of God incarnate as Jesus Christ. While its specific focus varies between Western and Eastern Christian traditions, it generally marks the conclusion of the Christmas season (Twelfth Night is Epiphany Eve).
The Meaning of "Epiphany"
The word "Epiphany" comes from the Greek word *epiphaneia*, meaning "manifestation" or "appearing." The feast celebrates moments when Jesus' divinity was manifested to the world.
Visit of the Magi (Western Tradition)
Primarily commemorates the visit of the Magi (Wise Men) from the East to the infant Jesus, signifying the revelation of Christ to the Gentiles (non-Jews).
Baptism of Jesus (Eastern Tradition)
Primarily celebrates the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River by John the Baptist, marking the manifestation of Jesus as the Son of God. This is also known as Theophany ("manifestation of God").
Wedding at Cana (Also Commemorated)
Some traditions also include the miracle at the Wedding at Cana (Jesus turning water into wine) as another early manifestation of Christ's divinity celebrated during the Epiphany season.
Light and Revelation
Overall, Epiphany is a festival of light, celebrating the coming of the Light of the World (Jesus) and the revelation of God's plan for salvation.
The Magi and Their Gifts
The story of the Magi (often depicted as three kings named Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar, though the Bible doesn't specify their number or names) is central to the Western celebration of Epiphany. They followed a star to Bethlehem and presented Jesus with symbolic gifts:
- Gold: Symbolizing Jesus' kingship and royalty.
- Frankincense: An incense used in worship, symbolizing Jesus' divinity and role as High Priest.
- Myrrh: An embalming spice, symbolizing Jesus' humanity and foreshadowing his suffering and death.
Their journey represents the seeking of Christ by all nations and the recognition of his significance beyond the Jewish people.
How Epiphany is Observed
Church Services
Special services focus on the Epiphany themes, reading the story of the Magi or Jesus' baptism. White or gold are common liturgical colors.
Blessing of Water (Eastern)
In Eastern Orthodox traditions, Epiphany (Theophany) involves the Great Blessing of Waters, often including outdoor ceremonies at rivers or lakes.
Chalking the Door
A tradition in some areas involves blessing homes by writing chalk symbols above the doorway (e.g., 20 + C + M + B + 24 for 2024), representing the year and traditionally the Magi's initials (Caspar, Melchior, Balthazar) or "Christus Mansionem Benedicat" (Christ bless this house).
King Cake
In many cultures (especially French, Spanish, Latin American), a special "King Cake" (Rosca de Reyes, Galette des Rois) is eaten, often containing a hidden figurine. Finding it brings luck or responsibilities.
Gift Giving
In some cultures, particularly in Spain and Latin America, Epiphany (Día de Reyes) is the traditional day for children to receive gifts, brought by the Three Kings.
Festivals of Light
Processions, bonfires, or special lighting may be part of cultural celebrations, emphasizing the theme of light overcoming darkness.
Epiphany and the Christmas Season
Christmas Eve/Day
Birth of Jesus.
Twelve Days of Christmas
Period from Christmas Day (Dec 25) to Epiphany Eve (Jan 5).
Epiphany (Jan 6)
Manifestation of Christ (Magi/Baptism); conclusion of the main Christmas celebration.
Season after Epiphany
Liturgical period focusing on Jesus' early ministry, leading towards Lent.
Epiphany marks the climax and conclusion of the traditional Twelve Days of Christmas. The period following Epiphany, leading up to Lent, is sometimes called Ordinary Time or the Season after Epiphany, focusing on Jesus' public life and teachings.