What is German Epiphany?

What is German Epiphany?

Epiphany (Epiphanie, Epiphanias, Erscheinung des Herrn) is annually celebrated in Germany on January 6 to mark the Magi’s (or three wise men’s) visit to baby Jesus.

How do they celebrate Epiphany in Germany?

Around January 6 children commonly dress up as the Three Magi from the Bible, who followed a divine star to visit Baby Jesus after his birth. The children go from house to house collecting money for charity projects and write “C + M + B” on each door as they go.

Why do Germans celebrate 3 Kings day?

Many nations celebrate the full 12 days of Christmas, through to the feast day of Epiphany, Three Kings Day, on January 6th. In Germany the twelfth day of Christmas is celebrated as Three King’s Day (Dreikönigstag) and commemorates the arrival of the Magi in Bethlehem to present their gifts to the infant Jesus.

What is the day after Christmas called in Germany?

Boxing Day
Boxing Day in Germany is celebrated on December 26, just a day after Christmas.

What is January 6th in Germany?

The Three Kings Day, better known as Epiphany, is 6 January, the day after the 12 days of Christmas. In parts of Germany, it has its own local customs.

Who are Sternsingers in Germany?

Germany’s ‘Sternsinger’ tradition. The Bible says that the Three Wise Men followed a star to bring gifts to the Baby Jesus. Every year, half a million young carol singers follow their example to raise funds for children’s aid projects worldwide.

What do Germans do on 26th December?

Boxing Day is a public holiday. It is a day off for the general population, and schools and most businesses are closed. Many families spend the day with grandparents or godparents on the Second Day of Christmas.

Why is today called Epiphany?

The name Epiphany comes from the Greek epiphaneia, meaning “appearance” or “manifestation,” and refers to the manifestation of Jesus Christ to the world. The holiday is also called the Feast of Epiphany, Theophany, or Three Kings’ Day.