Three Kings' Day

January 6th is, according to Scandinavian traditions, widely known as Thirteenth Day Yule, referering to this day as the thirteenth day after Christmas Eve. Commemorating the visit of the Magi to baby Christ, this day is also called Helligtrekongersdag ("Three Kings' Day"). Many places, Thirteenth Day Yule was marked as the actual day of Christmas, and hence called Old Christmas; it was a celebration consisting of traditional Christmas cuisine, many toasts to the year to come, as well as a three-armed "Three Kings" candelabra in the center of the feast. In the evening people preferred to stay indoors, as the infamous Wild Hunt began its retreat after creating havoc all through the holidays. Whatever dream one may have dreamed on this night, was believed to come true.

As early as the 3rd century, the baptism of Jesus was celebrated on this day. For the Gnostics, the day of Christ's baptism was his actual birthday, as he, through his baptism, became the undisputed son of God. In latin the day was called Epiphania domini ("Revelation of the Lord"). Thorughout the fourth century, the Epiphany was arranged to be celebrated on the 25th of December. In the year 1700 the holiday was abolished by Danish-Norwegian authorities.

For the common folk however, the Thirteenth Day was known as an important day of forsight; clear weather predicted a good and fertile year. It was also believed that the weather on this day would last for 13 weeks - from now on the coldest part of winter began.

Stefano da Verona (1435). Adoration of the Magi.
Tempera on panel. Pinacoteca di Brera.