Theophania or Epiphany 2025 in Athens
An inspiring tradition of throwing a cross into the water and diving after it highlights the celebration
Dates: January 6
Athens commemorates the baptism of Jesus Christ with colorful traditions. The most exciting is an event where a holy cross is thrown into any water basin found across Greece from seas to rivers, lakes, and even fountains.
Blessing of the Waters
As a priest throws in the cross, men (traditionally) plunge into the chilly waters to catch it and try to outrace each other. Whoever manages to be the first and bring it out is believed to be blessed with good luck. The waters of that basin are also considered sanctified after the occasion.
Epiphany Traditions
According to long-established traditions, on the Eve of Epiphany, that is, on January 5, children go from house to house singing carols, and priests bless households with holy water often taken from the water basin used in the cross-throwing rite. Moreover, everyone named Theofanis, or Theofania, Iordanis, Fani, Fotis, Foteini, or Ourania have a double feast celebrating their name day at Theofania or "Phota."
Popular Locations
The most significant celebration of Theophany in Greece takes place at Piraeus, the country’s largest harbor, in front of the Church of St. Spyridon. The event is led by the Archbishop of Athens and all of Greece, alongside the Bishop of Piraeus, the Mayor of Piraeus, and a large assembly of priests, dignitaries, and the faithful. Spectators gather on the crowded piers or watch from boats floating on the harbor waters.
In Athens, the Blessing of the Waters is a key part of the Theophany celebration, typically held at Dexameni (The Old Cistern) in Kolonaki, at the base of Mt. Lycabettus. Another location in Athens where the tradition is observed is the National Gymnastics Association’s swimming pool. Additionally, the Church of St. Dionysios Areopagus in Athens holds a special service for the occasion.
Significance of the Celebration
January 6, known as the day of the Epiphany (Theophania in Greek, meaning "Appearance of God"), holds great significance in Greece. It is one of the most celebrated and revered ceremonies in the Orthodox Church. Rather than focusing on the Three Wise Men, the Greeks observe the commemoration of the baptism of Jesus by Saint John the Baptist in the Jordan River, symbolizing the revelation of Christ as the Messiah. The feast marks the 12th and final day of Christmas celebrations and is considered one of the most important religious festivals in the country. January 6 is a public holiday in Greece.
