Did You Know? Christmas Isn’t Over Yet for the Amish!
As we pack away our Christmas decorations and usher in the New Year, many of us might not realize that the Christmas season isn’t quite over for the Amish. January 6th, known as Old Christmas or Alt Chrischdaag, holds a cherished place in the hearts of many Plain folks. This day, steeped in tradition and meaning, commemorates the Epiphany—the day the wise men brought their gifts to the Christ child.
But why is January 6th called Old Christmas? Let’s step back in time for a quick history lesson. In 1582, Pope Gregory XIII made a significant change to the calendar, deleting ten days to realign it with the year’s seasons. This adjustment technically shifted Christmas Day from December 25th to January 6th. While most of the world embraced the “new” calendar, the Amish and other Plain communities retained their original way of marking time, giving us what we now know as Old Christmas.
For the Amish, Old Christmas is more than a historical footnote.It’s a sacred day of rest and reflection, often observed with fasting in the morning to honor the spiritual significance of the holiday. This quiet time offers a moment to pause and remember the greatest gift of all—Jesus Christ.
Once the morning’s quiet reflection has passed, the day turns into a joyous celebration. Families gather together, and for many Amish communities, it’s a chance to reconnect with their “faraway family”—relatives who live in other towns or districts. These gatherings are filled with hearty meals, laughter, and meaningful moments.
The day’s activities reflect the Amish love for simplicity and togetherness. Ice skating, sleigh rides, and board games often take center stage. For the younger ones, it’s a time of excitement and fun, while the older generations enjoy the warmth of shared stories and memories. It’s not uncommon for the men to retreat to the barn for discussions about the past year’s challenges and blessings, as well as plans for the upcoming planting and harvest season. These conversations, steeped in tradition, show their commitment to working together as a community.
Food, of course, plays a significant role in any Amish gathering, and Old Christmas is no exception.Tables overflow with dishes like roast chicken, mashed potatoes, homemade bread, and desserts like shoofly pie and sugar cookies. The meal is a reminder of God’s provision and the joy of sharing His blessings with loved ones.
For me, one of the most beautiful aspects of Old Christmas is how it highlights the Amish value of family, faith, and community. In our busy, modern world, January 6th offers us all a gentle nudge to slow down, reflect, and hold close the things that truly matter.
Have you ever celebrated Old Christmas, or do you observe Epiphany in your family? I’d love to hear about your traditions in the comments! As we step into this new year, may we all find moments of peace, rest, and togetherness—whether on Old Christmas or any other day.
PHOTO: by Jim Fisher – Used with permission.
The post Did You Know? Christmas Isn’t Over Yet for the Amish! appeared first on Tracy Fredrychowski, Author.
