Have you ever wondered what Epiphany is? Keep reading to discover what it is and how French people mark this festive occasion.
What is Epiphany?
In France, Epiphany is called La Fête des Rois (The Kings Festival) and takes place on January 6th. On this day, families and friends come together to enjoy a traditional cake called Galette des Rois, or King’s Cake.
This celebration comes from Christian traditions. It marks the visit of the Magi, also known as the Three Wise Men or Kings (Melchior, Balthazar, and Caspar), who followed a star from the East to Bethlehem to see the newborn Jesus and bring him gifts of gold.
What is Galette des Rois?
The Galette des Rois, or King’s Cake, is a classic French pastry made of puff pastry filled with frangipane, a sweet almond cream.
In the South of France, especially in Provence, there is a regional twist. Here, the Galette des Rois is called Gateau des Rois and is more like a brioche, often flavored with orange blossom water and topped with candied fruits.
How do French people celebrate Epiphany?
On Epiphany, people in France come together to share the Galette des Rois. Inside the cake, there is a hidden bean or, more often today, a small figurine called a santon. Tradition says the youngest person at the table goes under the table and calls out who gets each slice, making sure the santon is given out by chance. Whoever finds the santon in their piece becomes King or Queen for the day, wears a golden paper crown, and usually has to buy the next Galette des Rois.
French people not only share the Galette des Rois with their family, but it is also very common for them to share one at school or at work. Teachers often celebrate Epiphany with kids, and in many companies it is not rare for colleagues to take a break in the afternoon to gather in the lunch area and share the Galette des Rois.
Where to taste the best Galette des Rois in France?
There are options for every budget, and here are some ways for you to enjoy high-quality Galette des Rois in France:
Department Stores
Department stores often have a food section on their ground floors featuring high-quality or speciality foods. In Paris, you can visit Galeries Lafayette or Bon Marché (La Grande Épicerie de Paris) during the first weeks of January, and you should be able to put your hands on this traditional pastry.
Luxury Hotels
For those who also want a high-end experience, note that some hotels in the capital and major cities in France open their restaurant doors to everyone. You too can enjoy their afternoon tea in a luxurious setting, even if you’re not staying there. Around Epiphany, places like the Bristol or the George V serve premium and sometimes creative versions of Galette des Rois.
Local Bakeries
This is probably the most popular option. Local bakeries are proud of their Galettes des Rois and often show them off in their windows.
Each year, the Confédération Nationale de la Boulangerie-Pâtisserie Française holds the national competition to choose the best Galette des Rois in France. For the 4th edition, the winners of the best Galettes des Rois in 2026 are: Gilles Lecointre in Courville-sur-Eure, Frédéric Hubert in Thionville, and Hervé Traclet in Etampes.
Want to learn more about France’s unique traditions and celebrations? Check out our blog!
