Epiphany, the final day of the Christmas celebrations
January 6 is the twelfth day of the Christmas holiday, now called the Epiphany, traditionally the Feast of the Appearance of Light, and the beginning of the carnival season.
The Hungarian name "Wasserkereszt" (water baptism) comes from the ritual of the consecration of water on this day. The meaning of water consecration is the lifting of water out of everyday use with a special blessing; the result is holy water. The person performing the blessing first blesses salt and then mixes it into the water with a blessing
What customs and traditions are associated with this special day?
- According to Hungarian tradition, people used to water their animals in their homes with the water consecrated that day, so that they would not get sick during the year. In some places, they would also sprinkle the soil of the house to bless it. On that day, the candles on the Christmas tree were lit once more, the leftover sweets were distributed, the tree was set on fire and only a sprig of it was set on the house altar. At noon and in the evening, the guests were still entertained, and after the evening bell, the chanting and stargazing
- in Western Christianity, the Feast of the Epiphany is also known as the "Feast of the Three Kings" - tradition has it that they are named Gaspare, Menhirther and Boldizar. All these names are still on their name-day on 6 January
- according to Italian tradition, on this day Befana, the old witch, brings gifts for the good children
- In France, Spain, Portugal and Latin American countries, cakes are baked and hidden as gifts. Whoever finds the gift will be king of the day
- In Latin America, children often receive presents on this day (Día de los Tres Magos) instead of Christmas
