Epiphany in Zakynthos: Unique Traditions, Customs, and the Blessing of the Waters

photo by Ενορία Αγίου Νικολάου Αμπελοκήπων Ζακύνθου

Epiphany, or as we call it (ta Fota) Τα Φώτα  is one of the most important celebrations of the year in Zakynthos, rich in symbolism, faith, and deeply rooted traditions. With Epiphany, the Twelve Days of Christmas come to an end, and light finally overcomes darkness, bringing purification, blessing, and a new beginning.  Tonight at midnight, as Epiphany dawns, Zakynthian tradition tells us that the heavens gently open, and the wishes whispered in that sacred moment are carried beyond the stars to be fulfilled.​
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The Blessing of the Waters.
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photo source Facebook. credit to original owner.

On Epiphany Day, following the Divine Liturgy, the Great Blessing of the Waters takes place. In Zakynthos, this ceremony has a distinctive local character, as the Cross is not thrown freely into the sea as you would see in other parts pf Greece. Instead, it is blessed using a long pole by the priest, in accordance with the island’s tradition.
In addition to the main port and central locations, the blessing of the waters is also performed on other beaches around the island, such as Kalamaki, as well as in several coastal areas, allowing local communities to take part in this important celebration.

The Custom of the Bitter Orange Trees and the Korokakia

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photo by νυχθημερόν

On January 5th, the eve of Epiphany, Zakynthos comes alive with tradition. It is common to see children going from house to house singing the Epiphany carols, announcing the approaching feast. In recent years, a traditional Epiphany song that had been lost to time has also been revived, reconnecting the island with an important part of its musical and cultural heritage.

This traditional Epiphany carol celebrates the Feast of Lights and the blessing of the waters, using rich symbolic imagery such as the white dove, priests chanting, and flowing water to express purification and divine presence. Rooted in folk poetry, it reflects themes of joy, sanctification, and the spiritual renewal of both nature and the household on Epiphany Day.
This sense of renewal is reflected not only in song, but also in the visual language of the churches. During Epiphany, churches in Zakynthos are traditionally decorated with bitter oranges and long green leaves known locally as Kokorákia (Κοκοράκια). These vibrant green leaves, arranged around icons and the blessing vessels, symbolize life, rebirth, and the victory of light, echoing the spiritual meaning of the feast. 
The bitter orange tree itself holds a special place in Zakynthian Epiphany customs. The bitter orange is considered a symbol of purity and protection. After the Blessing of the Waters, households sprinkle holy water around their homes, yards, and fields, while a bitter orange is often placed or hung at the entrance of the house or near the home icon stand where it will remain there until Clean Monday, when it will be squeezed and the juice drunk as a remedy for sore throats. This gesture is believed to ward off evil and bring health, prosperity, and good fortune for the year ahead.
Together, the bitter oranges and the Kokorákia—seen both in churches and homes—form a powerful symbol of cleansing, blessing, and renewal, marking Epiphany as a moment of spiritual light and fresh beginnings in Zakynthian tradition.

In Zakynthos, it is traditional on Epiphany to enjoy avgolemono or roast meat cooked in the oven, while fish is avoided entirely. Bringing fish into the house on Epiphany is considered bad luck, making this day’s meal all the more special and meaningful.
The Epiphany customs of Zakynthos—whether through the blessing of the waters at ports and beaches such as Kalamaki, or through household traditions involving holy water, bitter oranges, and traditional foods—keep the island’s cultural heritage alive and remind us of the timeless human need for light, hope, and renewal.   Xronia Polla!!!