Epiphany in Burgas: Saving the Cross, Military Rituals, and Tribute to Hristo Botev

The cultural calendar in Burgas will begin with the events dedicated to Epiphany and the birth of the revolutionary poet Hristo Botev in the new year.

Every year on January 6th, dozens of men participate in the ritual of Saving the Holy Cross, jumping into the icy waters of the Black Sea.

And in 2026, following tradition, the brave will be given the opportunity to contend with the cold waters of the Black Sea and retrieve the Holy Cross.

Those wishing to take part in the race against low temperatures and sea water must be at least 16 years old. Registration will take place on the same day from 10:00 to 11:15 am on the Bridge only upon presentation of an ID card, a document for a current medical examination (medical certificate) and signing a declaration, with which they assume responsibility for their health condition.

The celebrations for Epiphany will begin at 08:30 on Tuesday, when His Eminence Sliven Metropolitan Mr. Arseniy and the Burgas clergy will serve a festive Holy Liturgy in the church “St. St. Cyril and Methodius“.

On January 6th, again according to ancient tradition, military units and the battle flags of the Bulgarian army are blessed. It is believed that this ritual marked the beginning in 917 AD, when the first water blessing was performed before the Battle of Achelous. After a short break, it was renewed in 1879 and continues to this day.

The blessing of the battle flags from the Military Garrison – Burgas and the prayer for the health of the Bulgarian army will be served by His Eminence Sliven Metropolitan Mr. Arseniy and will begin at 11:00 am on the square “St. St. Cyril and Methodius“.

The throwing of the Holy Cross into the sea and its rescue will begin at 12:00.

On January 6th, 178 years since the birth of the revolutionary poet Hristo Botev will also be marked. He will be honored with flowers and wreaths at 12:30 in front of the bust-monument in Primorski Park.

From 13:30 in the hall of the Association of Burgas Artists, the traditional exhibition “Theophany“ of the three Burgas artists - Yordan Marinov, Yordan Petrov and Yordan Angelov will be opened.