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Holy Innocents Day

On Holy Innocents Day, let's remember the innocent children who were sacrificed and stand against violence towards them.

Monday

December 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEDecember 28

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYReligion

SUBCATEGORYChristian

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to commemorate a unique and lesser-known holiday on December 28 – Holy Innocents Day! This ancient Christian feast day originated in the 5th century and is also known as Childermas or Innocents' Day. It's a time to remember the biblical event of King Herod ordering the massacre of all male infants in Bethlehem, in an attempt to kill baby Jesus. Despite its somber origins, this day is now celebrated with various traditions around the world, including pranks and jokes played on each other. So let's honor this day by spreading joy and laughter while also reflecting on its significance in history.

TIMELINE

Holy Innocents Day Timeline

Herod's Massacre

King Herod, mentioned in the New Testament of the Bible, orders the massacre of all male infants in Bethlehem, in an attempt to kill baby Jesus. This event is known as the Massacre of the Innocents.

Establishment of Feast Day

Holy Innocents Day, also known as Childermas or Innocents' Day, is established in the 5th century as a Christian feast day to remember the innocent children killed by Herod.

Inclusion in Book of Common Prayer

Holy Innocents Day is included in the liturgical calendar in the Book of Common Prayer, reinforcing its observance within the Anglican Church.

Observance Shift in Europe

In some parts of Europe, Holy Innocents Day begins to see changes in its observance. Traditions of pranks and jokes start to take shape, as Holy Innocents Day takes a form similar to April Fools' Day.

Changes by the Catholic Church

The Roman Catholic Church makes changes to the liturgical calendar which reduces the rank of several feasts, including Feast of the Holy Innocents, making it an optional memorial.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Holy Innocents Day

Act out the traditional Nativity story

Gather friends and family to act out the Nativity story in honor of the innocent children lost on this day. It's a great way to remember the true meaning of Christmas and teach younger generations about the biblical event.

DONATE

Donate to a charity that helps children

In the spirit of giving and honoring the innocent children who lost their lives, donate to a charity that helps children in need. This can be a great way to spread love and kindness on Holy Innocents Day.

CREATE

Create artwork or crafts with children

Spend some time with children creating artwork or crafts that represent the innocence of childhood. This can be a meaningful way to celebrate Holy Innocents Day and appreciate the beauty of childhood innocence.

ATTEND

Attend a candlelight vigil

Many communities hold candlelight vigils on Holy Innocents Day to honor the innocent children who were killed. Attend one of these events to show your support and remember those who have passed.

PERFORM

Perform random acts of kindness

Spread love and kindness on Holy Innocents Day by performing random acts of kindness throughout the day. This can be a simple way to honor the memory of the innocent children and make a positive impact in your community.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Holy Innocents Day is Important

It encourages reflection and empathy

Holy Innocents Day encourages individuals to reflect on their own actions and exhibit empathy towards those who are suffering. It serves as a reminder to be kind and compassionate towards others, especially those who may be facing difficult times.

It commemorates an important historical event

Holy Innocents Day is observed on December 28th to remember the young children who were killed by King Herod in an attempt to kill baby Jesus. It serves as a reminder of the innocent lives lost and the hardships faced by many during this time in history.

It highlights the importance of protecting children

The massacre of the innocents depicted on Holy Innocents Day sheds light on the need for society to protect and care for its youngest members. It serves as a call to action towards ensuring a safe and nurturing environment for children everywhere, no matter their circumstances.

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