On January 8 the icy waters of Lake Michigan boiled during the Epiphany (Jordan's Day) ritual.

The tradition of celebrating the holiday was observed this year as well, thanks to the patriotic Bulgarian community in Chicago.

At sub-zero temperatures, the cross was saved by Shteryo Donev, and the youngest participants were Danail Kirov, 15, and Georgi Divyachki, 14.

Consul General Svetoslav Stankov attended the event and gave the Challenge coin of the Consulate to each participant in spirit of gratitude for the contribution to preserving this Bulgarian tradition in the Windy City.