Epiphany, celebrated in Romania on the 6th of January every year, is a significant holiday in the Christian orthodox calendar. It is also known as the Theophany and commemorates the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan river by John the Baptist. The holiday denotes either the visit of the three Magi (Wise Men) to baby Jesus in Bethlehem or the baptism of Jesus by St. John the Baptist, depending on the regional faith practices.
In Romania, the day of Epiphany is marked by a series of special religious ceremonies and traditions. One of these is the 'Blessing of the Waters,' where a cross is thrown by a priest into a major body of water, and it is believed that the one who retrieves it will be blessed with health and happiness throughout the year. This symbolises the sanctification of the waters through Christ's baptism.
Apart from the religious aspects, Epiphany in Romania is also celebrated with feast and merriment. Traditional foods are prepared, and the day is often spent visiting family and friends. This day also marks the end of the Christmas holiday period in Romania, and it signifies the beginning of another portion of the church calendar which leads up to Easter. Despite the chilling winter, the day is filled with warmth of festivity, faith and joyous reunions.