Three Kings’ Day, or the Feast of the Epiphany (Trzech Króli), celebrated on January 6th, is a significant holiday in Poland. This day marks the biblical journey of the Magi to visit the newborn Christ and combines deep-rooted religious traditions with vibrant modern festivities.
Traditional Celebrations
Historically, Three Kings’ Day has been a time for Poles to reflect on faith and family. In churches across the country, special masses are held to commemorate the visit of the Magi. One of the central traditions is the blessing of chalk during the service, which parishioners take home to inscribe “C+M+B” along with the current year on their doorways. These initials stand for the Latin phrase “Christus Mansionem Benedicat” (May Christ bless this house) and symbolize a prayer for protection and blessings throughout the year.
Processions have long been a part of the holiday. In rural areas, people once dressed as the Three Kings and went door to door singing carols and sharing the story of the Epiphany. While this practice has faded in some regions, its spirit lives on in modern celebrations.
Modern Festivities
Today, one of the most popular aspects of Three Kings’ Day is the colorful parades and reenactments held in cities and towns across Poland. These processions often feature participants dressed as the Magi, angels, shepherds, and even camels—a nod to the biblical account. Cities like Warsaw, Kraków, and Poznań host grand Orszak Trzech Króli events, attracting thousands of spectators. The parades are accompanied by singing, performances, and the distribution of small gifts or sweets.
Three Kings’ Day also signals the end of the Christmas season in Poland. Many families gather for a final festive meal, often featuring traditional dishes such as pierogi, bigos, and a special Epiphany cake. In some households, this cake includes a hidden almond or small figurine, with the finder crowned as the “king” of the day.
National Holiday Significance
Since 2011, Three Kings’ Day has been a public holiday in Poland, giving families the opportunity to fully participate in the celebrations. Schools and businesses are closed, and communities come together to honor this blend of religious observance and cultural heritage.
Keeping the Spirit Alive
Three Kings’ Day is a cherished tradition in Poland, bridging generations through its mix of faith, festivity, and family togetherness. Whether attending a grand parade or inscribing blessings on doorways, Poles continue to celebrate this day with reverence and joy, ensuring its enduring place in the country’s cultural calendar.