Bulgaria Inside

As the story goes, during the ritual, the sky opened and the Holy Spirit appeared in the form of a dove and named Jesus the son of God. Because of this event, the holiday has been called epiphany.

In Bulgarian folklore, the night of January 5, the sky opens and the prayers of all people are heard. Bulgarians also celebrate the purifying and healing power of water.

People attend a mass and usually after it, the priest throws a cross in a river or a lake. Lads try to catch the cross. The one who manages to reach it first will be happy and healthy throughout the year. The cross is returned to the priest and the winner receives gifts and a blessing. If the cross freezes in the water, the year is expected to bring good harvest and health.

A festive table is set for Epiphany. Only meatless dishes are prepared and wine is served alongside the meal. Everyone named Iordan, Iordanka, Ionko, Ionka, Dancho, Danka, Bozhidar, Bozhidara, Bogdan and Bogomil celebrates their name day.