The Real 12 Days of Christmas by Robin Raven

"The time period of December 25 to January 5 is often referred to as Christmastide. These twelve days of Christmas bridge the feat of the Nativity and the feast of the Theophany. In order words, we celebrate throughout all twelve days; they're not considered a time for fasting, unlike some other religious periods of celebration or observance. December 25 marks the celebration of Christ's birth, and the day after the twelfth day of Christmas is the day the baptism of Jesus and his realization as the Messiah is celebrated. This is known as Theophany or the Feast of the Epiphany. This is celebrated on January 6, according to Christians who follow the Gregorian calendar. It's a time of feast and fun, yet it marks the end of the Christmas season, and it's the start of the new year's realization for many."http://bit.ly/gn5LSg