Every year on January 18th, thousands of Orthodox pilgrims flock to the holy site on the Jordan River known as Qasr el Yahud. This is the baptism site, where, according to Christian belief, John the Baptist baptized Jesus about two thousand years ago. On other days of the year, the site facilitates baptism ceremonies for believers from all over the world. On the day of the Epiphany crowds gather into a colorful procession, wearing a variety of costumes while singing, playing musical instruments and dancing, ending the procession with celebrations and ceremonies.