The archetypal image of Tarpon Springs' Epiphany celebration is of young men in white T-shirts splashing in Cross Bayou in the quest for a wooden cross. While the dive is one of the highlights of the festival marking the baptism of Christ, it is only a part of the ceremony.
The day begins with a traditional two-hour religious service at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral, where many observers come in native Greek attire. Above, Katina Renedo and her brother, Nicholas, wait outside the cathedral after last year's service.
A procession from the cathedral at 18 N Hibiscus St. to Spring Bayou gives way to the release of the dove and the cross dive. It all ends with a festival in Craig Park featuring Greek food, music and dancing.
For the Greek community, it is a day of with deep religious meaning. For the thousands of non-Greeks who join the community for the celebration each Jan. 6, it is a chance to be immersed in a rich cultural tradition.
Epiphany is Tuesday. The church service begins at 10 a.m. with the procession starting about noon.
