Fota in Cyprus — How Epiphany and Theophany Are Celebrated

The Feast of Epiphany in Cyprus is called “Fota” (Θεοφάνεια, Theophania) and is not only an important religious event but also an official public holiday with a day off. It is celebrated annually on January 6 and is accompanied by large-scale church services, processions, and traditional rituals associated with the blessing of water. This holiday also has other names:

• Theophania (Theofania),
• Saint Epiphany Day,
• as well as Feast of Light — a direct translation of the Greek name, symbolizing the manifestation of Divine light to the world.
  
  
• How the Fota Celebration Takes Place in Cyprus
• Official Celebrations in Cities
• What Gifts Are Given for Epiphany
• What Is Best to Avoid on This Day
• Frequently Asked Questions About Holidays in Cyprus

How the Fota Celebration Takes Place in Cyprus

The Baptism of the Lord in Cyprus is also called Saint Epiphany Day or Epiphany. The holiday is deeply respected by Cypriots, so church services begin early in the morning and attract a large number of worshippers.

After the festive liturgies in the main Orthodox cathedrals of the cities, solemn processions to the sea take place. Clergy, led by metropolitans, perform the water blessing ritual: the cross is thrown into the sea three times, and young men dive to retrieve it from the bottom.

Finding the cross is a great honor. It is believed that the person who retrieves it first will receive blessings, health, and luck for the whole year. Although the cross is thrown three times and there may be multiple winners, the first one is considered the main victor.

During the ceremony, white doves are released into the sky — a symbol of the Holy Spirit and spiritual purity. The water blessing is conducted not only in the sea but also in rivers, lakes, and wells.

After the church part, the celebration continues in a secular form: concerts, street parades, folk and Pontic dances, and family festivities take place.

Official Celebrations in the Cities of Cyprus

In 2026, the state celebration of Epiphany will take place in Paphos. The participation of the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Nikos Christodoulides, and Archbishop Georgios is expected.

The main events will begin at the church of Agioi Anargyroi, followed by a festive procession to the Paphos harbor. There, to the sounds of the police and National Guard philharmonics, the Holy Cross will be thrown into the sea.

Festive ceremonies are also held in other cities:

• Nicosia — liturgy at the church of Agia Varvara and a procession to the lake in Afallasa Park with water blessing and folk dances.
• Ayia Napa — service at the church of Panagia Ayia Napa with the participation of Parliament Chairwoman Annita Demetriou and Bishop Vasilios, followed by the blessing of waters in the harbor.
• Limassol, Larnaca, and other cities — traditional processions and sea immersions.

What Gifts Are Given for Epiphany

Fota is an especially joyful day for children. On this holiday, they receive gifts from relatives and guests.

Most often, money, sweets, toys, books, and commemorative souvenirs are given. The most significant gifts and blessings are traditionally presented by godparents, emphasizing the spiritual connection with their godchildren.

What Is Best to Avoid on This Day

According to Cypriot traditions, on Fota it is recommended to avoid household chores and unnecessary fuss.

It is considered undesirable to do laundry, clean, take a bath, or visit a sauna. It is better to prepare the house in advance and dedicate the day to worship, family, and festive activities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Holidays in Cyprus

Is Epiphany a public holiday in Cyprus?

Yes. January 6 is an official public holiday. Government institutions and most stores are closed. Usually, only bakeries, kiosks, and some tourist establishments remain open.

What other religious holidays are celebrated in Cyprus?

• Easter
• Clean Monday
• Bright Monday
• Good Friday
• Assumption of the Virgin Mary (August 15)

What secular public holidays are observed in Cyprus?

• March 25 — Greek National Day
• April 1 — National Liberation Struggle Day
• May 1 — Labour Day
• October 1 — Cyprus Independence Day
• October 28 — Ochi Day
• Kataklysmos — on the 50th day after Orthodox Easter

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