Christmas is commonly celebrated for different lengths depending on tradition:
- The core day is December 25, Christmas Day, marking the birth of Jesus.
- The Church regards Christmas as an octave lasting 8 days, from December 25 to January 1, ending with the solemnity of Mary, Mother of God.
- Another traditional period is the "Twelve Days of Christmas," from December 25 to January 5, ending with Epiphany.
- Some extend the Christmas season until the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, which usually falls on the Sunday after Epiphany, around January 12.
- Historically, older Catholic traditions extended Christmas up to 40 days, ending with the Presentation of the Lord on February 2.
Celebration length varies by personal or cultural tradition as well, but these liturgical timeframes are generally recognized in Christianity.
