Epiphany in 2026: the true story of the greatest holiday

Epiphany is one of the most significant and ancient Christian holidays. The celebration is dedicated to a great event in the life of Jesus Christ — his baptism in the Jordan River by the prophet John the Baptist. The holiday has another name, Epiphany, because it was at this moment that the Holy Trinity appeared: the voice of God the Father, Jesus Christ as God the Son, and the Holy Spirit descended in the form of a dove. For more information about the spiritual meaning and history of the holiday, see the Izvestia article.

Epiphany of the Lord: the history of the holiday and its significance

The event of Jesus' baptism is described in all four Gospels and is considered the starting point of his public ministry and saving mission. According to Christian teaching, at the age of about 30, Jesus came to the banks of the Jordan River, where John the Baptist baptized people as a sign of repentance and purification. At that moment, the sky opened and the voice of God marked him as his beloved Son, and the Holy Spirit descended in the form of a dove. This became a manifestation of the trinity of God and a pledge of spiritual renewal for believers.

The holiday originated in the early Christian era, and at first the consecration of water was performed once a year. Over time, the tradition was supplemented with a double blessing of water — in Perpetuity and on the day of Theophany itself, which persists in the Orthodox Church to this day. The water consecrated on the holiday is considered holy and has healing and purifying powers.

When is the Epiphany of the Lord celebrated in 2026

Epiphany in 2026 is traditionally celebrated on January 19 (January 6, Old style). This is one of the twelve non-recurring feasts, which occupies an important place in the church's annual cycle. In 2026, the holiday falls on a Monday.

The day before the holiday, on January 18, Epiphany Eve is celebrated — a day of strict fasting and spiritual preparation for the celebration. This date does not change from year to year, symbolizing the immutability and importance of the event of the baptism of Jesus Christ in the Jordan River.

How the Epiphany of the Lord is celebrated: the main traditions

The Epiphany of the Lord is accompanied by special divine services and rituals, the main of which is the great consecration of water, a water blessing held both in temples and in open reservoirs. Believers collect holy water, which they keep for a whole year as a source of spiritual protection and healing.

One of the most famous traditions is Epiphany bathing in ice holes — special places cut down in icy water, often cross-shaped, which are called "jordans". It is a symbol of purification of soul and body, rebirth and renewal. Dipping takes place on the night of January 18-19 or within a few days after the holiday. Bathing requires caution and is carried out in good faith.

Also on Epiphany Eve, believers observe fasting and prepare for the holiday through prayers and participation in services. At the festive meal, a juicy and lean porridge of grains with honey and dried fruits is served, and after the liturgy it is allowed to start the festive meal. Religious processions, readings of the Gospel of the baptism of Jesus, prayers and festive hymns are held in churches, which create an atmosphere of spiritual celebration.

On this day, it is important to focus on repentance, forgiveness of others, and showing mercy. Quarrels, gossip, backbiting and any negative emotions should be avoided, as the holiday is dedicated to spiritual peace and love.