Epiphany ritual: men in folk costumes dance in Bulgaria’s Tundzha River

On Epiphany, men wearing traditional Bulgarian costumes gathered to dance in the icy waters of the Tundzha River.

After attending a liturgy at the Church of St. Archangel Michael, they entered the river accompanied by the sound of drums and bagpipes. Correspondent Kremena Daneva reported that the ritual drew visitors from across Bulgaria.

"The emotion drives everything. The celebration is incredible. There is nothing like it. We only wish for health; the rest will fall into place,' said one spectator.

Following tradition, the priest threw a cross into the river and men dived to retrieve it. It is believed that whoever catches the cross will enjoy health and happiness throughout the year.

The cross was first handed to the youngest participant, 18-month-old Anton Alexiev, and then to the priest, Father Dimitriy, who blessed all attendees.

Editor: Miglena Ivanova
Posted in English by E. Radkova