Twelfth Night, also known as Epiphany or Three Kings’ Day, is celebrated around the world on January 6th. This tradition has its roots in the Christian faith, when the Magi, or wise men, arrived in Bethlehem to see the newborn Jesus.
Throughout the centuries, cultures around the world have embraced this festive occasion with their own unique traditions and customs. From Spain to Mexico, from Italy to Ukraine, people celebrate Twelfth Night in a variety of ways.
Celebrating Twelfth Night in Spain: A Night of Reckless Abandon
In Spain, it is known as “El Día de los Reyes Magos,” or “The Day of the Three Wise Men.” This day is marked by parades where the Magi ride through the streets on decorated floats, throwing sweets and toys to children. It is also custom for families to eat a special cake called “Rosca de Reyes,” which contains a hidden figurine of baby Jesus. Whoever finds the figurine in their slice of cake is said to be blessed with good luck for the coming year.
¡Feliz Día de Reyes! Twelfth Night Celebrations in Mexico
In Mexico, Twelfth Night is celebrated with a similar tradition. Children write letters to the Three Wise Men, asking for gifts, and leave them alongside their shoes. On the night of January 5th, the Magi arrive to deliver presents and fill the shoes with sweets and toys. Mexicans also celebrate with a special cake called “Rosca de Reyes,” which is coated in sugar and decorated with candied fruit.
Twelfth Night in Italy: The Feast of Epiphany
Italy also has its own unique celebration of Twelfth Night. Known as “La Befana,” this holiday is marked by the arrival of an old woman known as the “Befana,” who flies through the night on a broomstick, delivering presents to children. She is said to have been an uninvited guest to the wise men and, feeling ashamed by her appearance, did not join the Magi in paying tribute. Thus, she spends her days delivering gifts to children in hopes that they will include her in their celebration. In Rome, a traditional sweet bread called “Pannettone” is served on Twelfth Night.
Twelfth Night in Ukraine: A Celebration of the Winter Solstice
In Ukraine, Twelfth Night – known as “Schedry Vechir” or “Generous Eve” – is a celebration of the winter solstice and the upcoming new year. Traditional customs include singing carols, fortune-telling rituals, and feasting on twelve traditional dishes, each representing a month of the year. Experience the warmth and hospitality of Ukrainian culture during this joyful and meaningful celebration.
In conclusion, Twelfth Night is a global celebration that unites people from different cultures and traditions. From parades to letters to the wise men, and from cakes to sweet breads, every culture celebrates with its own unique twist. These customs have been passed down through the centuries and continue to be cherished by families around the world. Twelfth Night is a day not only to celebrate the arrival of the wise men, but also to appreciate the diverse ways in which our global community honors this festive occasion.
