January 20, 2023: on January 19 Orthodox Christians of Taganrog participated in traditional Epiphany swimming, which was held on Pushkin Embankment in front of Albatross Café and in Andreev Bay near Pier 5.

In the beginning of the event, priest German consecrated the ice-hole and despite bitterly cold wind, over 2000 followers of Russian Orthodox faith went for a polar bear plunge in the Gulf of Taganrog, celebrating the baptism of Jesus in the river Jordan.

The bravest men and women who went for it were greeted on shore by numerous spectators, support groups and were offered hot tea and coffee. Great Blessing of Waters and church services were held in all Taganrog churches.