Epiphany 2026: how to prepare and who should refrain from bathing

Epiphany bathing attracts thousands of people every year, but cold water and winter conditions require special care and preparation. In 2026, safety during Epiphany remains a key issue, as following simple rules helps to avoid hypothermia and dangerous situations near water bodies. Learn how to properly prepare for Epiphany bathing and what rules to follow to ensure that the holiday passes without risk to your health

Choose a tour in Ukraine for any taste

CHOOSE A TOUR

On the eve of Epiphany, safety issues traditionally come to the fore. In 2026, as in previous years, Epiphany bathing is accompanied by increased risks associated with cold water, large crowds near water bodies, and overestimation of one's physical abilities. That is why experts urge people to approach this tradition consciously and follow basic safety rules.

Who should refrain from Epiphany bathing

It is important to remember that bathing in ice water is not a mandatory part of the holiday, but a personal choice for everyone. People with acute and chronic diseases, especially those with cardiovascular problems, are better off refraining from diving. It is also not recommended for those who have no experience of hardening: for an unprepared body, sudden contact with cold water can lead to general hypothermia and a sharp deterioration in well-being.

Don't want to miss important updates and useful articles? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter!

Basic rules for safe diving

You should only dive into the water in specially equipped areas where there are safe descents and lifeguards on duty. Swimming in unequipped areas, diving from piers, boats or other structures significantly increases the risk of injury. It is prohibited to enter the water while intoxicated, as alcohol dulls reactions and creates a false sense of warmth.

Before swimming, it is necessary to warm up the body well with a light warm-up. The dive itself should be short: doctors recommend that beginners stay in the water for no more than 5-10 seconds. Children are only allowed to swim and stay near the water under constant adult supervision.

After getting out of the water, it is important to immediately rub yourself dry with a terry towel, put on warm and dry clothes, and drink hot tea to avoid hypothermia. Warming up should be done gradually, without sudden temperature changes.

At the first signs of hypothermia — chills, tremors, blue skin or lips, pain in the fingers and toes — the person needs to be helped: dressed warmly, given hot tea to drink and encouraged to move. In case of moderate or severe hypothermia, the victim should be gently rubbed with a woolen cloth, given a light massage and gradually warmed up, seeking medical help if necessary.

Epiphany bathing requires responsibility and common sense. If you have doubts about your health or lack experience in diving into cold water, it is better to refrain from bathing and celebrate the holiday without risking your life and health.

Reminder! Generous Evening is one of the most vibrant winter traditions in the Ukrainian calendar, combining folk customs, Christian symbols and the atmosphere of pre-New Year renewal. This holiday has deep roots, its own rituals and a clearly defined date, which, after calendar changes, raises many questions. We will tell you when Malanka is celebrated, what it symbolises and how to spend this evening correctly.

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

We recommend purchasing it for a safe and comfortable trip to Ukraine: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance – insurance covering military risks for entry and travel in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Car Insurance – car insurance with extended coverage in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Legal Advice – comprehensive legal support on entry to Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tickets – bus and train tickets to/from Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tours – the largest online database of tours to Ukraine for every taste;

Visit Ukraine Hotels – hotels for a comfortable stay in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Merch – patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

© 2018-2026, Visit Ukraine. Use, copying or reprinting of materials on this site is permitted only with a link (hyperlink for online publications) to Visit Ukraine.

All rights reserved.