Christian Holiday
What is Epiphany?
6 January — Christian feast marking the visit of the Magi.
24
Countries
Jan 6
2026
Jan 6
2027
History & Origins
Epiphany, celebrated on 6 January, is one of the oldest Christian feasts. It commemorates the visit of the Magi (the Three Wise Men or Kings) to the infant Jesus in Bethlehem, marking the first manifestation of Jesus to the Gentiles. In Eastern Christian traditions, the feast focuses instead on Jesus's baptism in the Jordan River.
The word "Epiphany" comes from the Greek epipháneia, meaning "appearance" or "manifestation". In the Western church the feast has been celebrated since at least the 4th century; in the Eastern church it predates Christmas as the main mid-winter celebration. In many Orthodox countries Epiphany is the more important holiday.
In Spain and Latin America, 6 January is Día de Reyes (Three Kings' Day), the main gift-giving day of the Christmas season — children receive presents from the Three Wise Men rather than from Santa Claus. In parts of Europe, Epiphany marks the end of the Twelve Days of Christmas and is the traditional day for taking down Christmas decorations. It is a public holiday in Austria, Italy, Spain, and several other countries.
When is Epiphany?
Which countries observe Epiphany?
24 countries- Dominican Republic01/05
- Germany01/06
- Italy01/06
- Spain01/06
- Switzerland01/06
- Austria01/06
- Sweden01/06
- Finland01/06
- Poland01/06
- Slovakia01/06
- Romania01/06
- Croatia01/06
- Greece01/06
- Cyprus01/06
- Andorra01/06
- Liechtenstein01/06
- San Marino01/06
- Venezuela01/06
- Haiti01/06
- Suriname01/06
- Colombia01/12
- Georgia01/19
- Ethiopia01/19
- Netherlands04/27
Related Holidays
Christian Holiday
Christmas Day
The annual Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus, observed in 160+ countries on 25 December.
Christian Holiday
Good Friday
The Friday before Easter Sunday, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus.
Christian Holiday
Easter Sunday
The most important Christian feast — celebrating the resurrection of Jesus.
Christian Holiday
Easter Monday
The day after Easter Sunday — a public holiday across most of Europe and the Commonwealth.
Christian Holiday
Ascension Day
Forty days after Easter — commemorates the ascension of Jesus to heaven.
Christian Holiday
Whit Monday
The day after Pentecost — a public holiday in much of continental Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Epiphany?
- Epiphany, celebrated on 6 January, is one of the oldest Christian feasts. It commemorates the visit of the Magi (the Three Wise Men or Kings) to the infant Jesus in Bethlehem, marking the first manifestation of Jesus to the Gentiles. In Eastern Christian traditions, the feast focuses instead on Jesus's baptism in the Jordan River.
- When is Epiphany in 2026?
- Epiphany falls on Tuesday, January 6, 2026 in most countries that observe it.
- When is Epiphany in 2027?
- Epiphany falls on Wednesday, January 6, 2027 in most countries that observe it.
- How many countries observe Epiphany?
- Epiphany is observed as a public holiday in 24 countries, including Dominican Republic, Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland.
- Is Epiphany a public holiday?
- Yes — Epiphany is recognised as a public holiday in 24 countries. Observance rules, names, and exact dates may differ by country.