Epiphany is a highly celebrated Christian holiday in Sweden, observed yearly on January 6th. Also referred to as Trettondedag Jul ('Thirteenth Day of Christmas'), the holiday commemorates the visit of the three wise men, or magi, to the infant Jesus and the revelation of God in his Son as a human in Jesus Christ. Sweden, being a historically Christian country, has established it as a public holiday, meaning most businesses are closed and students get a day off from school.
In Sweden, Epiphany brings the festive Christmas period to a conclusion. Rather than celebrating with large public gatherings, it is traditionally a quiet, family-focused day. Families may go to church services in the morning and then spend the rest of the day at home. The day might be marked by enjoying a meal together, retelling the story of the magi, and maybe taking down and storing Christmas decorations for the next year.
Epiphany is also associated with two very popular food items in Sweden. One is the knutbulle, a type of cinnamon bun typically baked and eaten on this holiday. Some Swedes also celebrate by enjoying a glass of mumma, a traditional Swedish drink. The beverage, consumed mainly during holidays, is made up of beer, snaps, sugar, and spices. Although it is not as grand as Christmas, Epiphany in Sweden instills a sense of tranquility and warmth, marking a peaceful ending to the holiday season.