On Epiphany, Kalofer residents entered the icy waters of the Tundzha River and "saved" the cross. Traditionally, the cross in the town of Botev is given to the youngest participant in the men's horo, bTV reported.
After the participants in the traditional men's horo "warmed up" all night, at 8 a.m. the locals waded into the waters of the Tundzha.
It is believed that anyone who enters the river on Epiphany will be healthy throughout the year. Although the waters did not freeze for January 6, they are cold and sobering enough.
The men dance horo and sing the song "Zalubila e Vasilka", which has become the unofficial anthem of Jordan's Day.
After the Kalofer residents get out of the water, guests can also wade into Tundzha. This year, people from all over Bulgaria came to the sub-Balkan town.