What holiday comes after New Year’s? As the excitement of the New Year fades and the world begins to settle into its daily rhythm, many people start to wonder about the next major holiday on the calendar. The holiday that follows New Year’s Day is the Epiphany, also known as Three Kings’ Day or Twelfth Night, depending on the region.
The Epiphany is celebrated on January 6th each year, marking the day when the three wise men, or magi, visited the baby Jesus in the manger. This event is significant in Christian tradition, as it commemorates the revelation of Jesus to the Gentiles and the recognition of him as King of the Jews. The Epiphany is a time of reflection on the journey of the wise men and the significance of their visit to the newborn king.
In many countries, the Epiphany is celebrated with various customs and traditions. In Spain, for example, children leave their shoes out on the eve of the Epiphany, hoping that the three kings will fill them with toys and sweets. In Greece, the Epiphany is marked by the blessing of the waters, which is believed to have healing properties. In some areas, people participate in boat parades or dances to celebrate the occasion.
While the Epiphany is a religious holiday, it has also become a time for general merriment and celebration. Many people take advantage of the extended holiday period to spend time with family and friends, enjoying festive meals and activities. It’s a time to reflect on the past year and look forward to the year ahead.
As the world moves beyond the New Year’s celebrations, the Epiphany offers a moment of pause and a chance to honor the journey of the wise men and the birth of Jesus. It’s a holiday that brings together the joy of the New Year with the spiritual significance of the Christian faith, creating a unique blend of traditions and customs that are cherished by many.
So, as you ponder what holiday comes after New Year’s, remember the Epiphany—a time of reflection, celebration, and the continuation of the festive spirit that began on January 1st.
