Christmas in Ireland: Epiphany

Epiphany, which falls on January 6, is the last day of the Christmas season in Ireland. Epiphany is also called Twelfth Night, "Little Christmas,” or even "Women’s Christmas.” This last name reflects the old custom of serving a light dinner on Epiphany, featuring sherry and dainties, foods thought to be particularly appealing to women. Many people put three candles in their windows on Epiphany, one for each of the Three Kings, or Magi. The figurines representing the Three Kings finally arrive in Irish Nativity scenes on this day. The next day Christmas decorations are removed and stored until the following Christmas season.