Epiphany

“Epiphany... falls on January 6 and marks the official end to the festive season for many Christians... In the West, Christians began celebrating the Epiphany in the 4th century, associating it with the visit of the Wise Men to Jesus... During the medieval period, Christmas was celebrated for the 12 days from Christmas Eve on December 24, until the Epiphany. Even up until the 19th century, January 6 was as big a celebration as Christmas Day...” http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2016/11/18/what-is-the-epiphany-and-when-in-2017-is-it-here-are-10-facts-ab/

A day of traditions, old and new. Decorations around the house have been taken down, but the Christmas tree and twinkly lights won’t be switched off for the final time until bedtime.

Following another tradition set by my Mexican Sister-in-law, there are a few little presents waiting to be opened under the tree on Three Kings’ Day. In Spain and Latin America 6th January is the day when Christmas gifts are given, marking the day when the magi brought gifts to baby Jesus. I normally keep a few presents from Christmas under the tree for the 6th, but this year I set the family a fun challenge to buy each other a present with a budget of only £3. Its surprising what you can get for £3 in the sales!

Shortly we’re heading out to a local Thai restaurant, as a grand finale to the Christmas holidays (and to hopefully herald the return to more healthy eaten habits!), then it’ll be home to open the presents brought by the Three Kings and to raise a final Christmas toast. I’ve got a feeling there may be a box of sale Mince Pies waiting under the tree for me!


Since posting this yesterday, I’ve discovered the above link no longer works, so if you want some more background info on Three Kings’ Day, here’s a different link: https://www.tripsavvy.com/three-kings-day-in-spain-1643112