Twelfth Night
5 - January 6, Sunday – Monday
Traditions in different countries
1. United Kingdom
The holiday is considered the end of Christmas. On this day decorations are taken down, theatrical performances are held, street festivities take place, and Shakespeare's play "Twelfth Night" is read.
2. Ireland
Here the holiday is called "Little Christmas" or "Women's Day." Women gather together while men take over household duties.
3. Spain
On the evening of January 5, colorful parades of the Three Wise Men take place, and on January 6 Epiphany is celebrated. Children receive gifts, and the traditional cake "roscón de reyes" is served.
4. France
On January 6, the "galette des rois" cake is eaten, inside of which a figurine is hidden. The person who finds the surprise becomes the "king" of the holiday.
5. Italy
The holiday is associated with Befana, a kind old woman who brings children gifts or coal on the night of January 5 to 6.
6. Germany
On this day children dress up as the Three Kings, go from house to house, sing songs, and collect donations for charity.
7. USA
In some regions, especially in New Orleans, the holiday marks the beginning of the Mardi Gras season. Masquerades, parties, and street parades are held.
8. Sweden
January 6 is the public holiday "Trettondedag jul." It is associated with religious services and the conclusion of the Christmas period.
9. Norway and Denmark
Twelfth Night is celebrated as part of Epiphany, with church services and the tradition of taking down Christmas decorations.
10. Netherlands and Belgium
Children dress up as the Three Wise Men, go from house to house, sing songs, and receive sweets.
11. Poland
The holiday is known as Święto Trzech Króli (Day of the Three Kings). Religious processions, parades, and the blessing of houses with chalk take place.
Modern meaning
Today Twelfth Night combines Christian rituals and folk traditions. In some countries it is more associated with religious services, in others with street parades, masquerades, and cakes with surprises.
Twelfth Night in other years
Twelfth Night in other countries
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