For more than a century the city of Tarpon Springs, FL has held an annual celebration set out by the Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Dozens of teenage boys seek out God’s blessing by diving into the Springs Bayou chasing after a wooden crossed tossed in by a priest. The lucky one who captures the cross gains instant celebrity status and is carried through the streets of Tarpon Springs on the shoulders of his peers.

"The Tarpon Springs ‘Cross Dive’ is the centerpiece of what locals call the largest Epiphany event in the Western Hemisphere, celebrating the day Orthodox Christians believe Jesus was baptized in the River Jordan" ( www.msnbc.msn.com ).

This community tradition is not only a religious ceremony but a major tourist attraction. People from all over come to experience the Greek culture. Tarpon Springs has a large assortment of antique shops, galleries, restaurants and clubs as well. To learn more about beautiful Tarpon Springs, FL visit www.tarponspringschamber.com .