The Epiphany, also known as Three Kings’ Day or the Feast of the Epiphany, is a Christian holiday that commemorates the revelation of Jesus as the Son of God to the Magi, or wise men. It is traditionally celebrated on January 6th and there are several Epiphany activities for kids and for the family to participate in.
What is the story of the Epiphany?
The story of the Epiphany is told in the Gospel of Matthew, where it is said that the Magi, who were likely astrologers or wise men from the East, followed a star to Bethlehem in search of the newborn King of the Jews. When they arrived, they presented the infant Jesus with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
The celebration of the Epiphany has a long history and is observed in various ways around the world. In many countries, it is a public holiday and is marked with special church services, parades, and other festive events. Some cultures also have traditions related to gift-giving, and it is common for children to receive presents on this day.
Epiphany Traditions
One of the most well-known traditions associated with the Epiphany is the baking of a special cake called a “king cake.” The cake is typically made in the shape of a crown and is decorated with the colors of the Magi’s gifts – gold, frankincense, and myrrh. A small plastic or porcelain figurine, often representing the baby Jesus, is hidden inside the cake, and whoever finds the figurine is said to be the “king” or “queen” for the day.
In many countries, the Epiphany is also a time to honor the wise men and their journey to find Jesus. Some churches hold processions in which people dress up as the Magi and reenact their journey to Bethlehem. These processions often include live animals, such as camels and donkeys, to represent the animals that accompanied the wise men on their journey.
In addition to its religious significance, the Epiphany is also a time for people to reflect on the meaning of the revelation of Jesus as the Son of God. It is a reminder that Jesus is not just a historical figure, but a divine being, the Savior who came to earth to offer salvation to all people.
Overall, the Epiphany is a meaningful and joyous occasion that is celebrated by Christians around the world. It is a time to come together and honor the revelation of Jesus as the Son of God, and to celebrate the gifts and blessings that he brings to our lives.
Celebrating the Epiphany
There are many ways to celebrate the Epiphany, both at home and in your community. Here are a few ideas:
Attend Mass: Catholic churches hold special masses on the Epiphany to mark the occasion. If you are able, consider attending mass to learn more about the holiday and to join in the celebration.
Participate in a parade or procession: Some communities hold parades or processions on the Epiphany to reenact the journey of the Magi to Bethlehem. If you have the opportunity to join one of these events, it can be a fun and meaningful way to celebrate the holiday.
Bake a king cake: One of the most well-known traditions associated with the Epiphany is the baking of a special cake called a “king cake.” If you enjoy baking, consider trying your hand at making a king cake at home. You can find recipes online or ask a friend or family member for their favorite recipe.
Give gifts: In some cultures, it is traditional to give gifts on the Epiphany. If you have children, consider giving them a small present on this day as a way to celebrate the holiday.
Learn more about the Magi: The Epiphany is a great opportunity to learn more about the wise men who visited Jesus and their significance in the Christmas story. You might consider reading the relevant passages in the Bible or doing some research online to learn more about these important figures.
Bless Your Home with the Epiphany Home Blessing: This special blessing is a way of marking our homes, usually at the front or main entrance, as we ask God’s blessing upon those who live, work, or visit throughout the coming year. Check out our free Epiphany Home Blessing guide.
Reflect on the meaning of the Epiphany: Finally, the Epiphany is a time for reflection on the revelation of Jesus as the Son of God and the impact it has on our lives. Take some time to think about what this revelation means to you and how it shapes your faith and worldview.
Epiphany Crafts for Kids and Family
Here are a few craft ideas that kids can enjoy while learning about the Epiphany:
Make a crown: Encourage kids to make their own crowns using construction paper, glitter, and other craft materials. Once their crowns are finished, they can wear them during an Epiphany celebration or parade.
Create a star: Cut out a large star shape from construction paper and have kids decorate it with glitter, stickers, or other craft materials. This could represent the star that led the Magi to Bethlehem. Use this star to play the Magi Star Game with your family.
Make a “wise man” costume: Encourage kids to create their own “wise man” costumes using materials around the house. This could include a robe made from an old sheet, a crown made from tin foil, and a beard made from cotton balls.
Decorate a king cake: If you are making a king cake for the Epiphany, invite kids to help decorate it with icing, sprinkles, and other decorations.
Make a “treasure” box: Have kids decorate a small cardboard box to look like a treasure chest. They can then fill the box with small trinkets and treats to represent the gifts that the Magi gave to Jesus.
Overall, these activities and crafts can help families learn more about the Epiphany and have fun while doing it. Encourage everyone in your family to be open to learning and creative as they participate in these events and projects.
Additional Epiphany activities:
What do you do with your family to celebrate the Epiphany?
