Epiphany in United Kingdom ― Date, History, and Details
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History of Epiphany in United Kingdom and How to Celebrate/ Observe It
Epiphany is a Christian holiday that celebrates the revelation of God in human form as the baby Jesus. It is also known as the Twelfth Night, since it falls on the twelfth day after Christmas. Epiphany is traditionally celebrated on January 6, but some denominations (including the Anglican Church and the Lutheran Church) celebrate it on the first Sunday after January 1.
The word “epiphany” comes from the Greek word meaning “manifestation” or “revelation.” The story of the Magi (also sometimes called the Three Wise Men or the Three Kings) visiting the infant Jesus is the most well-known story associated with Epiphany. In the gospel of Matthew, the Magi visit Jesus in Bethlehem and bring him gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
The Magi are often interpreted as representatives of all humanity, and their gifts as symbols of Jesus’ role as Savior and King. The feast of Epiphany was first celebrated in the early church, and it eventually became one of the major festivals of the church year.
In many countries, Epiphany is marked by special foods and customs. In Italy, for example, a special cake called the “King’s Cake” is baked on Epiphany. A small figure of a baby is hidden inside the cake, and whoever finds it is said to be blessed with good luck.
In Spain, Epiphany is known as “Los Reyes” (the Kings), and children leave shoes out on the night of January 5 in hopes that the Three Kings will fill them with candy and presents. In Mexico, a popular tradition is to make a piñata in the shape of a star, which is then filled with candy and small toys. The piñata is broken open on Epiphany, and the candy and toys are shared among the children.
In the United Kingdom, Epiphany is not as widely celebrated as it is in other countries. However, there are still some traditions associated with the day. One is the “Twelfth Night Cake,” which is a fruitcake that is decorated with twelve candles. Another is the “Plough Monday” tradition, in which people dress up in costumes and sing while going door to door collecting money for charity.