January 6th Countdown- Discovering the Pre-January 6th Activities of Children
What do children do before January 6th? This question often sparks curiosity and excitement, as January 6th marks the celebration of Epiphany, a significant Christian holiday. During this time, children engage in various activities that symbolize the spirit of the season and prepare them for the festivities ahead. Let’s explore some of these delightful activities that children participate in before January 6th.
Children eagerly await the arrival of the Three Wise Men, also known as the Magi or the Three Kings, who are believed to have visited the baby Jesus on this day. In many cultures, children prepare for this event by participating in customs and traditions that have been passed down through generations.
One popular activity is the creation of a “King’s Cake,” a round cake filled with fruit and sometimes a small plastic baby figure. The person who finds the baby in their slice of cake is considered the “King” or “Queen” for the day and is often rewarded with a small gift or a special treat. This tradition symbolizes the visit of the Three Wise Men to the newborn Jesus.
Another delightful activity is the making of “Epiphany Wreaths.” Children decorate these wreaths with evergreen branches, pinecones, and colorful ornaments. They often add a star to the top, representing the star that guided the Three Wise Men to the baby Jesus. These wreaths are then hung in their homes or given as gifts to friends and family.
In some regions, children participate in the “Candlemas,” a day of purification and light. They attend church services where candles are blessed and then brought home to light during the dark winter nights. This tradition signifies the arrival of light and the end of the longest night of the year.
Children also enjoy playing with Epiphany-themed toys and games. One popular game is “Hide the Three Kings,” where children hide three small figurines representing the Three Wise Men and search for them throughout the house. This game teaches children about patience and the importance of searching for hidden treasures.
In addition to these customs, children often participate in Epiphany parades and festivals, where they can dress up in festive costumes and dance to traditional music. These events provide a sense of community and joy, as families come together to celebrate the holiday.
In conclusion, what do children do before January 6th? They engage in a variety of delightful activities that symbolize the spirit of Epiphany and prepare them for the celebration of the Three Wise Men’s visit to the baby Jesus. From making King’s Cakes and Epiphany Wreaths to playing games and attending festive events, these activities create lasting memories and deepen the children’s understanding of this significant Christian holiday.
