Every year on Jan. 19, Russians across the country briefly submerge themselves in ice-cold lakes and rivers to celebrate the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River, or the feast of the Epiphany.
The Orthodox Christian tradition has become popular among non-believers too, as it’s commonly believed that a quick ice bath can be good for one’s health.
This year, Moscow experienced one of the warmest winters in the city’s history — meaning those who celebrated the feast of the Epiphany (or Kresheniye in Russian) didn’t have quite the same intense experience as those celebrating in the cold climates of Siberia.
Here’s a look at the Epiphany celebrations taking place across the country:
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