If your family is anything like mine, the days after Christmas can feel a little quiet. The decorations are still up, the calendar has slowed down, and there’s that familiar feeling of Is it really over already?
If your family is anything like mine, the days after Christmas can feel a little quiet. The decorations are still up, the calendar has slowed down, and there’s that familiar feeling of Is it really over already? If you’ve been on a work vacation, you might be thinking “Gosh, it’s almost time to go back to the office.” While the kids are thinking, “Ooph, school starts soon!”
For years, I didn’t do anything special for Epiphany or Three Kings Day. Honestly, it wasn’t even on my radar, until YOU mentioned it. A few years back, several moms commented on one of my early January posts, sharing how their families celebrated Three Kings Day on January 6. That simple conversation planted a seed.
Now, we leave our Christmas tree up until the 7th (at least), and on January 6, we pause for one last intentional moment to officially close out the Christmas season with meaning, warmth, and a little fun.
If you’re looking for something that’s both faith-filled and cultural, here are a few simple ways to celebrate Three Kings Day at home.
For years, I didn’t do anything special for Epiphany or Three Kings Day. Honestly, it wasn’t even on my radar, until YOU mentioned it. A few years back, several moms commented on one of my early January posts, sharing how their families celebrated Three Kings Day on January 6. That simple conversation planted a seed.
Now, we leave our Christmas tree up until the 7th (at least), and on January 6, we pause for one last intentional moment to officially close out the Christmas season with meaning, warmth, and a little fun.
If you’re looking for something that’s both faith-filled and cultural, here are a few simple ways to celebrate Three Kings Day at home.
What Is Three Kings Day?
Three Kings Day (also called Epiphany) is celebrated on January 6 and marks the arrival of the Wise Men (or Magi) who followed the star to visit baby Jesus, bearing gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.
In many cultures around the world, this day is just as important as Christmas itself – a moment of revelation, generosity, and joyful closing.
Simple Ways to Celebrate with Kids
You don’t need a big production. A few thoughtful touches go a long way.
Make (or Buy!) a King Cake (or Rosca de Reyes as it's called in Latin America)
This is always a highlight. We love making a Monkey Bread King Cake. It’s incredibly moist, delicious, so easy to make, and it has become a family favorite with my children and husband alike. You can find my go-to recipe right here on WoodlandsMommy.com. Serve it warm, and don’t forget the hot chocolate!
Share a Festive Meal
Keep dinner special but simple:
- Roast chicken
- Tamales (a traditional favorite in many cultures) – I love the ones from Granny’s Tamales in Old Town Spring
- Hot chocolate + King Cake for dessert
It doesn’t have to be fancy. It just needs intention.
Listen to "We Three Kings"
My girls love the Kirk Franklin version of "We Three Kings" that was featured in the movie The Star. Find a version that your family loves, and listen to it / sing it on this day.
A Sweet Night-Before Tradition (January 5)
On the evening before Three Kings Day, try this gentle tradition your kids will love:
- Set out shoes or a shoebox
- Add oats or grass and a small bowl of water for the Kings’ animals
- Before morning, replace the oats with a small gift or note
It’s a lovely way to build anticipation and connect children to the story.
A Quiet, Meaningful Bedtime Moment
Before bed on January 5 or the night of January 6:
- Light a candle
- Read a short Three Kings story. "Hurray, It's Three Kings Day" is a top pick, and here's a link to purchase the Kindle / digital version for immediate access.
- Read the Bible passage about the Magi (Matthew, Chapter 2)
Keep it short. Keep it calm. Let it be a peaceful close to the season.
A Gentle Goodbye to Christmas
Three Kings Day has become our family’s way of saying goodbye to Christmas – not abruptly, but intentionally. It’s reflective, cozy, and meaningful, especially for kids who aren’t quite ready to let go.
If you’ve been looking for one more thrill, one more memory, or one last moment of wonder before packing away the decorations, this might be the tradition your family didn’t know it needed.
And if you’ve already been celebrating Three Kings Day, thank you for sharing it with me all those years ago.
