Three Kings Day (Little Christmas, Epiphany, Twelfth Day, Greek Christmas, & La Befana)
January 6th is the traditional day the Magi, or the Three Kings, visited the Christ Child. They came bearing gifts of Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh.

Today is also known as Little Christmas, Epiphany, Twelfth Day, Greek or Orthodox Christmas, & La Befana (Italy).

Epiphany is one of the oldest Christian celebrations. It was celebrated since the end of the second century, before the Christmas holiday was recognized. It is commonly known as Twelfth Night, Twelfth Day, or the Feast of Epiphany. It means “manifestation” or “showing forth”. It is also called Theophany (“manifestation of God”), especially by Eastern Christians. Epiphany also refers to the church season that follows the day.

And yes, however you celebrate today, its time to take the tree down because Christmas is officially over!

Reminder: The Martin Luther King, Jr. Day holiday will be celebrated in 2 weeks, Monday January 16, 2012. Remember – It’s A Day On, Not A Day Off!!

More Info: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day On the Net

Human Rights Day & Week
Promoting the idea and reality that basic human rights at home and throughout the world are those which without people cannot live in dignity. Issued annually by Presidential Proclamation.

To advocate human rights is to demand that the human dignity of all people be respected.*

*Human Rights Resource Center

photo credit: riacale via flickr

National Salesperson’s Day
As you work your way down your Christmas shopping list, take a moment to appreciate the invaluable role that the salespeople play in your shopping experience.

Feast of the Immaculate Conception (Catholic)
Celebrating the conception of Mary, the mother of Jesus. The Roman Catholic Church dogma states that, from the first moment of her existence, she was preserved by God from the lack of sanctifying grace that afflicts mankind, and that she was instead filled with divine grace. It is further believed that she lived a life completely free from sin.*

*source: wikipedia
photo credit: via flickr

Pearl Harbor Day
By Presidential Proclamation, today we honor and remember those who were killed when the US Naval Base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii was attacked by the Japanese Air Force on December 07th, 1941. Before September 11th 2001, this was the first and only only attack on US soil.

photo credit: via flickr

Saint Nicholas Day (Christian)
A day honoring the Bishop of Myra in what is now Turkey. Known for his charity and wisdom, St. Nicholas is believed by many to be the inspiration for Father Christmas and Santa Claus.

Some parts of the world celebrate the evening before, known as Saint Nicholas’ Eve (December 05).

link: The Many Faces of Santa