The traditional date to take down the Christmas Crib is
February 2nd, the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord (Candlemas).
Here's why and a bit more context:
* Liturgical Reason: Candlemas marks the end of the Christmas season in the Catholic Church. It commemorates the presentation of the infant Jesus in the Temple and the purification of Mary.
* Symbolic Significance: Leaving the crib up until Candlemas allows for a more complete contemplation of the entire mystery of the Incarnation: the birth of Christ, his manifestation to the Magi, and his presentation in the Temple.
However, some families and traditions vary:
* Epiphany (January 6th): Some people remove the crib after the Feast of the Epiphany, which celebrates the arrival of the Magi.
* January 1st: Some take it down New Year's Day.
* Anytime in January: Realistically, many people take it down sometime in January as they get back into their routines.
Ultimately, the best time to take down your Christmas crib is a matter of personal preference and family tradition. But traditionally, Candlemas is the most significant date.