The Epiphany of the Lord, which in 2025 will be celebrated on Jan. 5 in the United States, celebrates the revelation to the Gentiles that Jesus is the Son of God through the visit of the Magi, or Three Wise Men. In the Eastern tradition where the feast originated, Epiphany – or Theophany as it is called there – commemorates the visit of the Magi, the baptism of Jesus, and the wedding at Cana. In the Western Church, the celebration primarily focuses on the visit of the Magi. As the rest of the world all-too-rapidly moves past the beauty of Christmas, Epiphany gives us more time to reflect on how Jesus is made manifest in our own homes and lives.
King Cake, also known as Three Kings Cake, is a culinary treat associated with Epiphany in many countries. Although the ingredients vary widely, almost all have a fève, or small trinket, hidden inside that represents the Magi’s search for the Christ Child. The fève itself varies from country to country, ranging from a bean, coin or almond to a small figure of the infant Jesus. The person who finds the fève traditionally gets a prize. While most of us in the United States associate King Cake with Mardi Gras, the dessert is traditionally served from Epiphany through Carnival in Louisiana. Bake your own version with recipes found at Catholic Cuisine.