Holy Innocents Day: History, Facts & Insights

This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Holy Innocents Day (2024) 🗓️ that no one tells you about. Holy Innocents Day is celebrated on December 28th.

Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Holy Innocents Day, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as amusing facts you ought to know about Holy Innocents Day.

📅 What day is Holy Innocents Day 2024?

In 2024, Holy Innocents Day is on Thursday, December 28th. It is the 4th Thursday in December; in 2024, it is Saturday. There are until the next observance. You also can learn all the cool details and facts about December 28, 2023, that you might not be aware of.

Holy Innocents Day is in:

Every year on December 28, Holy Innocents Day, the Catholic Church observes the Feast of the Holy Innocents to remember the first martyrs. These were the innocent Israelite children who were tragically killed by King Herod in his attempt to find and harm baby Jesus. This day is also known as Christmas and is significant because it commemorates the terrifying actions of Herod, who was fearful of the predicted Jewish king and angry because he had not received news from the Magi about the whereabouts of the baby king. In his rage, Herod ordered the slaughter of all boys under the age of two in Bethlehem and its surrounding areas, hoping to eliminate Jesus.

📜 Holy Innocents Day History

According to the Catholic Church, these children are considered the first Christian martyrs and are also known as the patron saints of infants. The Feast of the Holy Innocents, previously observed alongside Epiphany, has evolved into its own celebration. In ancient Rome, it was a day of fasting and sorrow, but now it has become a day of joy and playfulness. While some regions encourage pranks and fun activities, others focus on honoring children and blessing their toys.

Holy Innocents Day Facts

🔖 Churches might have some relics
St. Paul Outside the Walls and other churches house the preserved remains of the infants who were victims of Herod’s brutal killings.

🔖 It’s celebrated on different dates
Non-Catholic faiths might choose to commemorate Holy Innocents Day on a day other than December 28.

🔖 Sicarius of Bethlehem is a purported victim
It was claimed that among the babies killed, there was a child who was believed to be the saint Charlemagne.

👍 Why Is Holy Innocents Day Important

They were brutally murdered by a monarch for his wicked benefit, and they should be remembered.

Children are the greatest source of joy in a person’s life.

Especially since the departed “Innocents” have been designated as the patron saints of newborns.

🙂 How To Observe Holy Innocents Day

Play pranks with the kids

Attend Feast Day Mass
Participate in the Feast Day Mass and make sure to listen carefully to the pastor’s sermon.

Let the kids have fun
This festival may have gone out of favor, but let’s revive it so the youngsters may have fun!

📅 When is Holy Innocents Day?

YEAR DATE DAY
2023 December 28 Thursday
2024 December 28 Saturday
2025 December 28 Sunday
2026 December 28 Monday
2027 December 28 Tuesday

View all 🔗 December holidays, including 🔗 Religious and other 🔗 Catholic holidays.

We will continue to update this page with new information and cool facts about Holy Innocents Day. So be sure to check back soon.

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