Epiphany 2026 and 2027
Epiphany is celebrated on 6 January in parts of Switzerland to commemorate the journey of the magi, or wise men, who followed a shining star to visit the infant Jesus as recorded in the Bible. This holiday falls 12 days after Christmas Day.
Year | Date | Day | Holiday | Cantons |
---|---|---|---|---|
2026 | 6 Jan | Tue | Epiphany | GR, LU, SZ, TI & UR |
2027 | 6 Jan | Wed | Epiphany | GR, LU, SZ, TI & UR |
Please scroll down to end of page for previous years' dates. |
Epiphany’s date is supposed to commemorate two things: the visit of the three Magi to the young Jesus and the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River by John the Baptist. However, the visit of the wise men, traditionally Balthasar, Melchior, and Caspar, is the main focus. The day is even often called “Three Kings Day”.
Most towns in celebrating cantons have Epiphany masses where the visit of the Magi is re-enacted. Wandering “star-singers” also go door to door on this holiday. Families also get together to feast and fellowship. They eat Three Kings Cake, which is a sweet bread shaped like a crown. Inside the bread is a tiny plastic king figure hidden, and whoever finds it can be “king for a day”.
Previous Years
Year | Date | Day | Holiday | Cantons |
---|---|---|---|---|
2025 | 6 Jan | Mon | Epiphany | GR, LU, SZ, TI & UR |
2024 | 6 Jan | Sat | Epiphany | GR, LU, SZ, TI & UR |