Epiphany, also known as Three Kings' Day, is a significant holiday celebrated in Andorra. It occurs on the sixth of January every year, marking the official end to the festive season. It is a public holiday in Andorra, with most businesses and schools closing in order to honor the occasion. Epiphany is regarded as the 12th Day of Christmas and commemorates the three wise men, or kings, who followed a bright star to offer gifts to the baby Jesus.
In Andorra, the Epiphany holiday is a grand affair, rich in tradition and cultural significance. The night before Epiphany, children leave their shoes out for the three kings to fill with gifts, mirroring the three kings' offerings to the Christ Child. The gifts often consist of sweets or small toys, though Andorran kids sometimes find a piece of coal if they have been naughty during the year! This custom is similar to that of leaving cookies and milk for Santa, but with a distinctive Andorran twist.
On Epiphany Day, Andorrans attend a special church service and celebrations continue throughout the day. In some towns, parades featuring the three kings take place, often culminating in a public feast. These parades are characterized by vibrant costumes, singing, and dancing, offering a spectacle of Andorran culture and tradition. The holiday is not only central to Andorra’s Christian population but also a major cultural event, providing a platform for communal celebration, feasting, and enjoyment.