Epiphany 2025 in Germany

Epiphany, celebrated on January 6, marks the visit of the Three Wise Men to baby Jesus, symbolizing the revelation of Christ to the world. In Germany, it is known as Heilige Drei Könige and is a public holiday in some regions, often observed with church services and traditional customs like house blessings.

Epiphany: A Public Holiday?

Epiphany is a public holiday in parts of Germany, including Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg, and Saxony-Anhalt. In these regions, businesses, schools, and offices remain closed. However, regular work and school schedules apply in other parts of Germany, where it is not an official holiday.

Epiphany

Epiphany, known as Heilige Drei Könige (Holy Three Kings) in Germany, is celebrated on January 6 and marks the end of the Christmas season. Historically, it commemorates the visit of the Three Wise Men, Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar, to baby Jesus in Bethlehem. This event symbolizes the revelation of Christ to the Gentiles and highlights the universal significance of his birth. The festival has been observed since the 4th century and holds deep roots in the Christian tradition, spreading across Europe with various regional customs.

Observance on Epiphany in Germany

Epiphany is a public holiday in Germany in Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg, and Saxony-Anhalt. It is primarily a religious day, often starting with special church services where the story of the Magi is retold. A well-loved tradition is the Sternsinger ("Star Singers"), where children dressed as the Three Wise Men go door-to-door, singing carols and collecting donations for charity. They also bless homes by inscribing the initials of the Magi and the current year on doorways, symbolizing Christus Mansionem Benedicat (May Christ bless this house). This tradition signifies protection and blessings for the household throughout the year.

For many families, Epiphany is a day of quiet reflection and rest, as it is the last official holiday of the Christmas season. Traditional meals may be shared, and in some regions, the day involves taking down Christmas decorations. Epiphany holds additional liturgical significance in Catholic regions, with blessings of water, chalk, and incense.

The importance of Epiphany in Germany lies in its role as a spiritual celebration, emphasizing charity, community, and faith. It brings the festive season to a meaningful close while reminding people of the universal message of love and generosity. The customs, from Sternsinger to house blessings, connect communities and carry forward traditions that have been cherished for centuries.

Epiphany Observances