You're reading: Seasonal celebrations continue on Jan. 19

Those who are sad at the thought of the Christmas season ending, rejoice! More celebrations are coming.

On Jan. 19 Orthodox Ukrainians will celebrate the traditional religious holiday Vodohreshcha, or the Baptism of Jesus. But don’t get fooled by its religious nature, for Kyiv is preparing to have a wild celebration.

The main event is a plunge into the icy waters of the Dnipro River. After being blessed by the priest, the cold swim is believed to bestow powers of healing, youth and luck.

If you’re feeling gutsy, you can join the faithful and the adventurous on the Obolon wharf by the Svyato-Pokrovsky church. However, if you prefer a drier and warmer alternative, you can just simply drink a few cups of sacred water available in every Orthodox Church in town this holiday.

The main events will take place in Hydropark near the clock tower of the Jesus’ Baptism and will continue in the city center.

Mamayeva Sloboda, a theme park designed like a Cossack village, will host a string of events. Following a service at the park’s church at 9 a.m., the priest will bless the water of a small lake in the park and will invite people to dive in. Around 11 a.m. folklore ensembles, traditional porridge called kulish and alcoholic drinks will warm up the revelers.

Thur, Jan. 19, Obolonska Nabereshna, near the Svyato-Pokrovsky church, 5-A Prirechnaya St.
The swimming will take place during daylight. Mamayeva Sloboda: 2 Myhayla Doncya St., tickets: Hr 10 – 40.