Epiphany is celebrated on January 6, but French tradition has adapted, allowing kings to be drawn throughout the month. When should you really enjoy the pancake?
Epiphany galette des rois date – PHOTO: Pixabay
Epiphany marks the start of each year with a gourmet tradition: the galette des rois. But what is the real date to taste it? Between Christian tradition and modern uses, the answer varies.
Epiphany: a tradition set for January 6
According to Christian tradition, Epiphany is celebrated January 612 days after Christmas. This symbolic date commemorates the arrival of the Three Wise Men, Gaspard, Melchior and Balthazar, who came to pay homage to the child Jesus by offering him gold, incense and myrrh. Epiphany is therefore a religious festival marked by a rich heritage.
However, in France, a liturgical reform of 1802 modified this tradition by moving the celebration to first Sunday following January 1to allow wider participation of the faithful. This means that Epiphany can fall between January 2 and 8 depending on the year. In 2025, the first Sunday of the year corresponds to January 5date on which many French people will draw kings.
A tradition that has become gourmet
If the galette des rois is historically linked to Epiphany, the tradition has expanded over time. Today, it is not uncommon to taste it throughout the month of January. Many French people are increasing the number of occasions, particularly in businesses, schools or family reunions, making the pancake a true ritual of sharing.
A 2018 Ifop survey reveals that 93% of French people eat at least one pancake in Januaryet 64% of them are tempted several times. Epiphany has thus become a convivial celebration, well beyond its religious significance.
A diversity of recipes
The frangipane galette remains the French favorite, but regional variations and modern innovations enrich this tradition. In the south of France, candied fruit brioche dominates, while bakeries compete in creativity with chocolate, praline and even vegan versions. Each region and each family has its preferences, but they all share the desire to celebrate this time of year.
