Epiphany
Epiphany 2027 falls on Wednesday, January 6. In 2028, Epiphany falls on Thursday, January 6.
The dates of Epiphany, this year and in the years ahead.
When is Epiphany?
| Year | Date |
|---|---|
| 2025 | Monday, January 6, 2025 |
| 2026 | Tuesday, January 6, 2026 |
| 2027 | Wednesday, January 6, 2027 |
| 2028 | Thursday, January 6, 2028 |
| 2029 | Saturday, January 6, 2029 |
| 2030 | Sunday, January 6, 2030 |
| 2031 | Monday, January 6, 2031 |
Dates calculated from the statutory rules. Source: U.S. Office of Personnel Management: federal holidays. More about our sources
What is Epiphany?
Epiphany, on January 6, marks the visit of the Magi, the wise men from the East who, according to the Gospel of Matthew, followed a star to Bethlehem with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. It is the end of the twelve days of Christmas. In Eastern churches, the day also commemorates the baptism of Jesus.
In some countries Epiphany is a public holiday, such as in Spain, Italy, Austria and parts of Germany, and in Spain and Latin America it is the main day for giving presents to children.
The date never changes; only the day of the week does.
In 2027 it falls on Wednesday, January 6.
Three Kings Day in the United States
Epiphany is not a federal holiday, and offices and schools are open as usual. In many Latino communities, however, Día de los Reyes, or Three Kings Day, is an important celebration. Children leave out shoes, sometimes with hay for the camels, and find gifts in the morning, and families share a rosca de reyes, a ring-shaped sweet bread with a small figure hidden inside.
In Louisiana, Epiphany marks the start of the Carnival season, and king cakes appear in bakeries until Mardi Gras.
Frequently asked questions
When is Epiphany 2027?
In 2027, Epiphany falls on Wednesday, January 6.
Is Epiphany a day off?
No, Epiphany is not a public holiday in the United States.
Who were the three wise men?
The Bible speaks of Magi from the East, without a number or names. Because of their three gifts, tradition made them three kings, later named Caspar, Melchior and Balthasar.
What is a king cake?
A sweet cake eaten from Epiphany until Mardi Gras, especially in Louisiana. Whoever finds the small figure hidden inside traditionally provides the next cake.