Yesterday it was Epiphany at my country. Epiphany is a big celebration in many places in Poland, featuring street parades, carolling of songs, and reenactments of the Nativity scene. The street parades usually involve a procession of the 3 wise men who give people candy and small treats in some towns and cities. Local parish priests preach about the significance of Epiphany and many houses are blessed. Some people place above their doors 3 small boxes, each containing water, incense, and chalk in memory of the wise kings’ gifts to Jesus.
Epiphany in my city.
Epiphany is a national public holiday in Poland, so schools, banks, government offices and most private businesses are closed. There is a trade prohibition on public holidays in Poland. People intending to travel via public transport during public holidays must check with the public transit authorities on any changes to time schedules.
Epiphany is a Christian feast that commemorates both the three wise kings’ visit to infant Jesus as well as Jesus’ baptism in the Jordan River. Epiphany was a holiday that was cancelled during the Communist regime in Poland, but it was restored as an official public holiday across the country in 2011.
I wonder if there is a connection to January 6th here, the traditional day to take down Christmas decorations.
ReplyDeleteAndrew, definitely there is a connection between with Epiphany. In Christian culture 6th January ends Christmas period.And we also take down decorations..
DeleteI had no idea that it was a Public Holiday for the Epiphany, it's not here in Australia. It's the time to take down the Christmas decorations if one wishes.
ReplyDeleteYes in my place it is a public holiday but I don't celebrate it but it is nice to have one more day off.
DeleteWow! That looks like quite the celebration! There's nothing like that for Epiphany here.
ReplyDeleteBethany, it is becoming more popular and popular now...
DeleteThat's an interesting holiday, not celebrated outside the church here. I wonder how they chose chalk, water, and incense to represent the gifts of the Magi?
ReplyDeleteCynthia it is an interesting question.
Deleteit would be neat to ride in a parade as a king! :)
ReplyDeleteWhy not? Maybe next year I will invite to my place
DeleteGosia, you will see that I also addressed the history of the Epiphany on my blog today, as I thought some might not be aware of the story. I would bet that your kings should be riding camels, but horses will do, right. Nice festival time.
ReplyDeleteLinda, but as I know at our Silesian zoo we have only 2 camels. In my opinion it is nice festival..
DeleteI had no idea it was such an event there! Good post.
ReplyDeletePat, it means you are wiser now. Congrats
ReplyDelete