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While popularized by William Shakespeare in the play Twelfth Night, the name predates his work.—Charlotte Observer,
15 May 2026 The season begins on January 6, or Twelfth Night, and runs through the day before Ash Wednesday, with the biggest parades and parties packed into the final two weeks.—
Hanna Wickes,
Fort Worth Star-Telegram,
2 June 2026 Like last year’s Twelfth Night, which reopened the theater after a fancy makeover, it’s directed by Saheem Ali, and its big-statement scenic design is by Maruti Evans.—
Sara Holdren,
Vulture,
12 June 2026 The official first day of the Mardi Gras season is Twelfth Night, January 6, commemorating the Epiphany.—
Jenny Adams,
AFAR Media,
30 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for Twelfth Night
Word History
First Known Use
before the 12th century, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of Twelfth Night was
before the 12th century