06/01/2026
✨ Happy Epiphany (also known as the Twelfth Day of Christmas)! Christmastide officially ended last night and Christians all around the world celebrate this day as it marks the visit of the Magi (The Three Wise Men) to the baby Jesus. Growing up, we went to mass to receive Holy communion and children would add the statues of the three wise men to nativity scene. After another Christmas dinner, candles were lit, small gifts were received, games were played and the decorations and tree were taken down and put away in the loft.
✨As an adult, I try to maintain these family traditions, and although we will cook something special, I draw the line at cooking another Christmas dinner! Instead, I have taken up the Irish tradition of Nollaig na mBan, which in Irish translates as "Women's Christmas". It’s one of Ireland's biggest traditions and is observed on January 6. On this day, women traditionally get a much-needed rest after catering to everyone over Christmas. In rural Ireland, my mother, along with her mother and sisters, would, gather in each other’s homes for tea, cake, singing and of course dancing, but she was unable to maintain this tradition once she moved to London.
✨I have therefore re-established this Irish tradition and have been visiting one or two friends and neighbours the last few days! It’s great craic!
✨But did you know that the Christmas season itself continues right through Epiphany, from 6 January to 2 February, ending on Candlemas. Many Christians in Europe and South America leave their Christmas tree and lights up until then. I may well do that next year!
✨“The most beautiful message of the Epiphany is that we all have a star to guide us, and in important moments we must always raise our eyes to the heavens”.
Antonio Curnetta
⭐️✨🌟
