Tarpon Springs Epiphany

Tarpon Springs’ Greek heritage runs deep, from its historic sponge-diving industry to the restaurants and bakeries lining its waterfront. That heritage takes center stage at the city’s biggest annual event, the Epiphany celebration, returning for its 121st year on January 6, 2027 at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral.

For more than a century, the community has gathered to commemorate Christ’s baptism through this cherished Greek Orthodox tradition. The day begins with Orthros and the Hierarchical Divine Liturgy at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral, followed by a procession of clergy and faithful to Spring Bayou for the Blessing of the Waters.

A white dove is released to symbolize the Holy Spirit’s presence at Christ’s baptism. Afterward, the Archbishop casts a cross into the bayou and young men dive into the waters as crowds lining the shoreline watch with anticipation. The diver who retrieves the cross is traditionally considered blessed for the year ahead.

Keep the celebration going at Craig Park’s Epiphany Glendi! Following the religious ceremonies, enjoy live Greek music and dancing, savor traditional Greek food and treat yourself to pastries and loukoumades (Greek honey doughnuts). Admission is free and open to the public, with food and beverages available for purchase.

Schedule of Events

• January 2, 7 p.m.: Epiphany Ball at St. Nicholas Community Center (348 N. Pinellas Ave.), featuring dinner, dancing and live music by Ormi Orchestra.
• January 5, 1 p.m.: Blessing of the Fleet at the Historic Sponge Docks (along Dodecanese Boulevard), honoring sponge and fishing boats, divers and local businesses.
• January 6, 8 a.m.: Orthros and Hierarchical Divine Liturgy at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral (36 N. Pinellas Ave.). 
• Following services: Procession to Spring Bayou, beside Craig Park (5 Beekman Lane), for the Blessing of the Waters, dove release and cross dive, followed by the Epiphany Glendi at Craig Park. Exact times are still being finalized.
• January 6, 8 p.m.: Divers Dance at St. Nicholas Community Center (348 N. Pinellas Ave.), featuring food, drinks, a live DJ and dancing.

Planning Your Visit

Parking: Thousands attend each year, and parking around the cathedral and Spring Bayou is limited, so plan to arrive early. Check the cathedral’s website closer to the event for additional parking details. 

Dress code: All visitors are welcome to attend and are asked to dress modestly and respectfully for services inside the cathedral, as Epiphany is first and foremost a religious celebration.

Event Updates: Check the cathedral’s Epiphany page closer to the event date for finalized timing and additional parking or transportation information.