Epiphany (Jordanovden) in Varna 2027: the cross in the sea, programme and the icy swim

On Wednesday 6 January 2027, Varna celebrates Jordanovden (Epiphany, Bogoyavlenie): after the blessing of the waters, a priest throws a cross into the sea and young men swim out to catch it. Whoever brings it back first is said to stay healthy all year. The ceremony is free to watch from the seafront; the exact 2027 place and times had not been published as of October 2026.

What happens on Jordanovden?

The Bulgarian Orthodox Church marks the baptism of Christ in the river Jordan. The day usually starts with a festive liturgy, followed by a procession and the Great Blessing of the Waters. Then comes the moment everyone waits for: the cross goes into the water and swimmers race for it. Other customs, according to Bulgarian Wikipedia:

• If the cross freezes in the water, the year will be healthy and fruitful.
• People wash their face and hands with the blessed water for health.
• Jordanovden ends the “Dirty Days” between Christmas and Epiphany.
• On the eve, families have the third and last meatless supper of the Christmas cycle.
• About 150,000 people named Yordan, Yordanka, Dancho and similar celebrate their name day.

Where and when does it happen in Varna in 2027?

The cross is thrown into the sea on the Varna seafront after the church service. Varna Metropolis and the municipality announce the venue, liturgy and procession times only in the days before the holiday, and as of 26 October 2026 nothing had been published for 2027. We will update this page in late December. Until then, check the Varna Metropolis news page and the Visit Varna events calendar.

How can I watch?

• Arrive early: the best spots along the water fill up before the cross is thrown.
• Dress for wind; the seafront in January is cold, and the sea averages about 8 °C (see sea temperature by month).
• It is a workday, so buses run as normal; see Varna buses and tickets.
• Be respectful: it is a religious service first, a spectacle second.

Is the icy swim safe?

Not for everyone. Sudden immersion in cold water triggers the cold shock response: a gasp, fast breathing and a racing heart in the first minutes, which can lead to inhaling water or heart trouble, especially for people with heart conditions. Only experienced winter swimmers should go in, never alone, never after alcohol and only for a short time. Get warm and dry straight away. In an emergency call 112. More advice: Black Sea swimming safety.

What about Ivanovden on 7 January?

The next day, Thursday 7 January 2027, is Ivanovden, the feast of St John the Baptist and one of Bulgaria’s biggest name days (more than 300,000 Ivans, Ivankas, Vankos and others). Expect family dinners and full restaurants in the evening; some regions continue the ritual bathing for health. Neither day is an official holiday; see Bulgaria’s public holidays in 2027. For other ideas in the cold months, read Varna in winter.