On January 6th, the Greek people celebrate “Ta phota” or “Theofania” or “Epiphania”, which stands for the Baptism of Christ in the Jordan River. It is a very important Greek celebration and it is the last one of the 12-day celebration period, which starts on Christmas.
As you can imagine, in Greece there are many traditions to celebrate this day.
On January 5th the children are singing again specific carols, going from door to door.
These carols are not as famous as the Christmas’ or New Years’ carols, but also very beautiful.
Since in covid-times, not many doors are opened for singing children, or children do not enjoy to sing with facemask…you can listen to song on video
Click here to listen to the song:
The tradition of January 6th
In the morning of January 6th, the priest throws the cross in the water.
Depending on the region, the cross is thrown in the sea, river, or lake. In mountainous areas or in Athens, the cross can also be thrown in a fountain.
Young men will dive or jump in the water and try to catch it. The person that will catch it, will have a lot of luck.
Also, the water is then believed to be sanctified (the process is called “the sanctification of waters”). The priest often goes to the houses and blesses them with this water.
The Epiphany customs come from ancient Greece, and particularly from a feast in ancient Greece called “Plintiria” (=washing machines). During this feast, the Athenians were carrying the statue of Athena to the coast of Faliro (close to Piraeus) in order to wash it in the sea, to make sure it would keep its magic powers.
Greek Namedays
Of course on the 6th January, also a lot of people have their name day:
Fotis, Foteini, Theofanis, Theofania, Fani, Ourania, Iordanis. Don’t forget to wish them: Xronia Polla! Χρόνια Πολλά!
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Looking to learn more about other Greek National Holidays and celebrations throughout the year?
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