Galette des Rois: Celebrating Epiphany with Tradition, Flavor, and Fun Across France and the U.S.

For those curious about this cherished celebration and tradition in France and beyond, or for those who marked the occasion on January 6th…

In France, the festive season doesn’t end with New Year’s Day. The holiday spirit continues into January with the celebration of Epiphany on January 6, a Christian feast day honoring the visit of the Three Wise Men to the baby Jesus. Central to this celebration is the galette des rois, or king cake—a pastry steeped in tradition and flavor. This golden, flaky cake, filled with a luscious frangipane made of butter, sugar, eggs, and almonds, embodies the spirit of family, friendship, and the joy of sharing. Adding a playful twist, a tiny charm called a fève is hidden within the cake. The lucky individual who discovers it is crowned king or queen for the day. Originally a simple fava bean, the fève has transformed over time into ornate figurines, often depicting the baby Jesus or other meaningful symbols.

Image by sebastiano iervolino from Pixabay

What Is Galette des Rois?

The galette des rois is a French culinary tradition that varies by region. In Paris and northern France, the classic galette is a puff pastry filled with frangipane. In Provence, the king cake takes the form of a colorful brioche ring, topped with candied fruits and sugar crystals, reflecting the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. Meanwhile, in Brittany, butter galettes filled with custard offer a rich alternative. Despite these regional differences, the galette des rois always brings families together to celebrate Epiphany.

The History of Galette des Rois

The tradition of the galette des rois dates back to the Middle Ages, introduced by Benedictine monks as part of their Epiphany celebrations. The cake was a symbol of unity and sharing, designed to be divided equally among family members. Its origins are tied to the Feast of Epiphany, which honors the Magi’s journey to Bethlehem. Over time, the tradition spread beyond monasteries, becoming a beloved custom in French households. The fève, initially a simple fava bean, evolved into porcelain or ceramic figurines in the 19th century, adding charm and collectibility to the ritual.

How to Celebrate in the U.S.

The galette des rois tradition has traveled far beyond France, finding enthusiastic followers in cities across the United States.

Washington, D.C.: French bakeries like Fresh Baguette and Le Diplomate offer authentic galettes des rois during January. Many host events where customers can sample the cake and participate in the crowning tradition.
New York City: Renowned bakeries such as Maison Kayser and Dominique Ansel Bakery create exquisite galettes, often with modern twists. The annual French Institute Alliance Française (FIAF) celebration includes tastings and cultural events to honor this French tradition.
Los Angeles: French patisseries like Pitchoun Bakery and Chaumont Bakery serve traditional and innovative versions of the king cake. Events at the Alliance Française de Los Angeles include storytelling and festivities for families.
Las Vegas: The city’s vibrant French community celebrates at spots like Rosallie Le French Café and Bouchon Bakery, where locals and tourists alike can enjoy this delicious tradition. Exclusive galette-themed events at luxury hotels bring an added touch of glamour to the celebration.

How to Join the Fun

Whether you’re in France or the U.S., celebrating the galette des rois is simple and joyous. Purchase a galette from a local bakery or try your hand at making one at home. Gather friends and family, slice the cake, and let the youngest person hide under the table to assign slices, a tradition ensuring fairness. Whoever finds the fève wears the crown and reigns for the day, adding a playful touch to this age-old custom.

The galette des rois is more than a dessert—it’s a symbol of community, tradition, and shared happiness. Wherever you are, indulging in this sweet treat is a delightful way to honor a centuries-old tradition that continues to unite people around the world.

Header Photo Credit: Dima Dmitry from Pixabay