Ivan Stoyanov Catches the Cross in Burgas: A Sign of Health and Happiness in the New Year

06.01.2026 | Burgas

30-year-old Ivan Stoyanov caught the Holy Cross in Burgas, heralding health for his family and the arrival of a son. Thousands gathered on the shore for the ritual, which took place in favorable weather conditions.

Снимка от Dietmar Rabich, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

30-year-old Ivan Stoyanov from Burgas caught the Holy Cross in the sea. For him, this is a sign of health and happiness in the new year, especially now, when he is expecting the birth of a baby boy.

50 people participated in the ritual near the Bridge. The oldest participant was 73 years old. The temperature of the sea water was 10 degrees Celsius, and the air temperature was around 15. The good weather attracted thousands of spectators.

Burgas Municipality provided warm towels and drinks. Divers from the Navy monitored the safety of the participants.