Bobote

Bobote is a Romanian word referring to the Epiphany, a Christian feast day commemorating the visit of the Magi to the infant Jesus, as well as the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist in the Jordan River. It is celebrated annually on January 6th.

In Romanian Orthodox tradition, Bobote involves a religious service followed by the blessing of waters. A priest typically throws a cross into a body of water (a river, lake, or even the sea), and young men compete to retrieve it. The person who retrieves the cross is believed to be blessed with good fortune and health throughout the year. The blessed water is then distributed to the faithful, who use it for blessings and healing.

The celebration of Bobote also includes carol singing and other customs that vary regionally within Romania. It is a significant religious and cultural event for Romanian Orthodox Christians.