Thick-skinned Bulgarians jumped into ice water as they celebrated Epiphany in the Black Sea resort of Varna on Friday. /CFP Photo

Epiphany, also known as Three Kings’ Day, is celebrated on January 6 and marks the end of Christmas celebrations. /CFP Photo

According to Bulgarian tradition, an Orthodox priest throws a wooden cross into the sea, a river or a lake, and young men try to retrieve it. /CFP Photo

It’s believed that the first person who plucks the cross from the freezing water will stay healthy through the coming year. /CFP Photo