Epiphany in Poland
The Feast of the Three Kings, known as the Epiphany, commemorates the visit of the Magi from the East. In Poland, it is celebrated with processions and the blessing of incense and chalk.
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History
The feast commemorates the visit of the Magi – Caspar, Melchior, and Balthazar – who honored the newborn Jesus. Its roots date back to the 3rd century, even earlier than the official celebration of Christmas.
Traditions
Polish customs include the blessing of chalk and incense in churches and marking the doors of homes with the inscription "K+M+B" and the current year. In many cities, colorful processions of the Three Kings are organized.
Contemporary celebrations
Since 2011, Epiphany has once again been a public holiday in Poland. While religious in nature, the holiday increasingly includes cultural and community events.
Also celebrated in:
Holiday Patterns in Poland
- This country has 13 public holidays each year.
- 4 holidays are movable (date changes each year).
- 4 holiday(s) fall on Sundays.
- 22 holiday(s) are unique to this country.
- The longest stretch without a holiday is 78 days.
- Most holidays fall in: December.