Tarpon Springs Epiphany & COVID-19

This year’s Epiphany celebration will be a little different due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

The city is prohibiting crowds from gathering near the Spring Bayou to watch the cross dive.

The 8 a.m. mass will be limited to 50% capacity, meaning only 250 patrons can attend. Churchgoers will be spread out to allow for social distancing. Masks are required.

The procession from the church to the bayou would only include clergy, divers, and a few dignitaries. The church is encouraging people to watch the cross dive on social media from their homes.

Spectators who are “vulnerable” and “the elderly” as encouraged to view the services online via the website.

Other changes

  • Limited capacity at the cathedral
  • CDC guidelines of social distancing and mask guidelines will be encouraged as recommended by emergency management officials.
  • There will be a “significantly” scaled-down procession consisting of the divers, dignitaries, and the clergy
  • The parent viewing area will be limited from family members to only two family members from each diver
  • All 55 divers between the ages of 16-18 will dive for the cross
  • The clergy and divers will walk to Spring Bayou at the normal traditional time and will use limited streets with police officers present to allow safe travel along Pinellas Avenue and Spring Boulevard
  • Parishioners of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral will be permitted to attend the blessing at Spring Bayou with the appropriate pass that will be provided in advance
  • The cathedral has agreed to forego its Glendi Celebration after the blessing of the waters and the retrieving of the cross
    You can still visit your favorite Greek Restaurant to celebrate.
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