Holy Innocents' Day, also called the Feast of the Holy Innocents or Childermas, is observed on December 28 in Western Christian churches and December 29 in Eastern churches. It remembers the young children of Bethlehem who, according to the Gospel of Matthew, were killed on the orders of King Herod after the birth of Jesus. In Spain and much of Latin America, the day has also become a time for lighthearted pranks, similar to April Fools' Day.
History of Holy Innocents' Day
According to the Gospel of Matthew, King Herod learned from the Magi that a new 'king of the Jews' had been born in Bethlehem. Fearing a rival, he ordered the killing of all boys under the age of two in the area. Joseph, warned in a dream, fled with Mary and Jesus to Egypt. Historians debate whether the event happened as described, since it isn't recorded in other ancient sources.
By the 400s and 500s, churches commemorated the children as the first martyrs who died because of Christ. In medieval England, the day was known as Childermas, and it was considered an unlucky day to start new projects. Some medieval traditions let children play the role of a 'boy bishop' around this time.
In Spain and Latin America, the Día de los Santos Inocentes on December 28 is a day for pranks, called inocentadas, and newspapers and TV stations sometimes publish fake stories, much like April Fools' Day.
Why Holy Innocents' Day Matters
For Christians, the day is a solemn remembrance of innocent victims and an occasion to pray for children who suffer today.
Many churches use the day to advocate for the protection of children and families, including refugees.
It also shows how a single date can carry very different traditions across cultures, from quiet remembrance to playful pranks.
How to Celebrate Holy Innocents' Day
- Attend a service: many churches hold special Masses or prayers.
- Support children: donate to organizations that protect children.
- Learn traditions: explore Childermas and Día de los Inocentes.
- Play a harmless prank: if you celebrate the Hispanic tradition.
- Reflect: take a moment to think about children in need.
Celebrating at Work, School and Home
At work, a donation drive for a children's charity fits the day's message. In classrooms, students can compare how cultures observe the same date differently, or learn about Spanish and Latin American traditions. At home, families who observe the feast can attend a service or pray for children in need; others can enjoy gentle inocentadas in the Hispanic tradition. Keep pranks kind and harmless.
Fun Facts About Holy Innocents' Day
- Western churches observe it on December 28; Eastern churches on December 29.
- In medieval England, it was called Childermas.
- In Spain and Latin America, pranks are called inocentadas.
Holy Innocents' Day FAQs
When is Holy Innocents' Day?
Holy Innocents' Day is December 28 in Western churches and December 29 in Eastern churches.
What does Holy Innocents' Day commemorate?
It remembers the children of Bethlehem who, according to the Gospel of Matthew, were killed by King Herod.
What is Childermas?
Childermas is an old English name for Holy Innocents' Day.
What is Día de los Santos Inocentes?
In Spain and Latin America, December 28 is a day for pranks called inocentadas.
Is Holy Innocents' Day a holiday?
It is a church feast; it is not a public holiday in the U.S.
How can I observe Holy Innocents' Day?
Attend a service, support children's charities or learn about its traditions.