On the 6th of January, we witnessed a very special tradition that has existed for many years in Kazanlak that left a strong impression on us. On this day, young men gathered to jump into cold water as part of the celebration of Epiphany, an important Christian holiday observed in Bulgaria and many other Orthodox countries. Experiencing this event firsthand allowed us to better understand the cultural and spiritual meaning behind this tradition.
Epiphany, also known as Theophany, remembers the baptism of Jesus Christ in the River Jordan. In Orthodox Christian belief, this moment represents the revelation of the Holy Trinity and holds great spiritual significance. Water is considered sacred on this day, symbolizing a fresh start. For this reason, special ceremonies take place across the country, focusing on the blessing of water.
In many Bulgarian towns, priests lead religious services near rivers, lakes or fountains, blessing the water through prayer and ritual. In some places, a wooden cross is thrown into the water, and young men compete to retrieve it, believing it will bring health and good fortune for the year ahead. Although the temperatures are often freezing, participation in this ritual is seen as an act of faith, courage and respect for tradition.
In Kazanlak, the sight of young men jumping into the cold water was both striking and inspiring. The participants prepared themselves mentally and physically, while friends, family members and local residents gathered around to watch and show support. The atmosphere combined seriousness and celebration, reflecting the deep respect for the tradition alongside a strong sense of community pride.
Beyond its religious meaning, the Epiphany celebration also serves as an important cultural event. It brings together people of different ages and backgrounds, reinforcing shared values and collective memory. For many locals, witnessing or participating in this ritual is a way of maintaining a living connection to their heritage and passing traditions on to younger generations.
As volunteers living in Bulgaria, observing Epiphany in Kazanlak offered us a valuable opportunity to learn through direct experience. Rather than only reading about local customs, being present allowed us to see how traditions continue to shape everyday life and social bonds. Moments like this help deepen cultural understanding and make volunteering abroad a richer and more meaningful experience.