Yakutsk's brave souls dive into icy waters for Epiphany tradition

Yakutsk has held its annual Epiphany ice-hole swimming event to mark a key religious celebration. Residents gathered to take part in the traditional dip, observed each year by Orthodox Christians. The event coincided with the feast of the Epiphany on January 19, following the Julian calendar used in Russia. A special ice hole was prepared for the occasion in Epiphany village, located along the city’s river channel. Before the swim, the water was blessed by Roman, the Archbishop of Yakutsk and Lensk. This ritual is a long-standing tradition for the feast, symbolising purification and renewal.

Participants braved the freezing temperatures to immerse themselves in the icy waters. The event drew locals who continue the practice as part of their religious and cultural heritage.

The ice-hole swimming event remains a significant tradition in Yakutsk, bringing together the community each year. The blessing of the water and the participation of residents highlight the enduring customs tied to Orthodox Christian observances in the region.