The cake traditionally celebrates Epiphany in France during the month of January.

Tradition holds that the cake is "to draw the kings" to the Epiphany. A figurine, “la fève”, is hidden in the cake. The person who finds it in his or her slice becomes King or Queen for the day, and will have to offer the next cake.

Originally, la fève was literally a broad bean, but it was replaced in 1870 by a variety of figurines. 

A paper crown is included with the cake to crown the "King/Queen" who finds the fève in their piece of cake. To ensure a random distribution of the cake shares, it is traditional for the youngest person to place him- or herself under the table and name the recipient of the share which is indicated by the person in charge of the service.