Since 2011 Epiphany, or Three Kings’ Day is a public holiday in Poland. On January 6, Christians in Poland celebrate the visit of the Magi to the Christ Child. Moreover, in many parts of Poland, January 6 is Christmas Eve for Orthodox Christians.
The Magi return “by another way” (Mt 2:12).
On this occassion, in the past stalls by the churches sold frankincense, myrrh and chalk. Originally from the 18th century, the custom of blessing it became popular.
The chalk was used to write the letters C†M†B and the date of the current year on the entrance door in many Catholic houses on the feast of Epiphany. This custom is still practised when priests pay pastoral visits to the faithful.
As a result, frankincense, myrrh, and chalk are still blessed in many churches in Poland.
Moreover, Epiphany in Poland is the time of Three Kings Parade.
Three Kings Parade is a theatrical performance that recalls the historical event of Jesus’ birth and the visit of the Magis who worshipped Him 2000 years ago. Its purpose is to familiarize everybody with the Gospel tradition.
Foundation ‘Procession of Three Kings’ organizes educational programs and contests making families, communities and inhabitants active; and also Three Kings Parades across Poland.
“The story of the event began in 2009 when the students of one of Warsaw’s schools decided to perform the Live Nativity scene on the city’s streets. The idea started spreading in 2011 when other places joined Warsaw in the Parade’s organization. The first Parade abroad was organized in 2013 in Ukraine. In 2019, the Parade was organized in 752 places in Poland and in 22 venues abroad.
Outside of Poland, the Parades are organized in several countries of Europe, Africa, Asia, and both Americas. They are like the Parades organized in Poland. Their members carry various props like crowns, flags, or banners. However, each Parade is different because each country has different customs, traditions, and the Parades happen in different climates or languages.”