Across Macedonia, Orthodox Christian faithful are preparing for the Epiphany (Vodici) celebration on Saturday, when men jump into the local rivers and lakes to retrieve the holy cross. Some 140 participants announced they will jump for the cross in Skopje alone, where traditionally Archbishop Stefan is the one leading the ceremony.

It is believed that the person who retrieves the cross will have good luck throughout the year. To better accommodate the crowds, traffic in downtown Skopje will be diverted.