Smells of baklava wafting from the bakeries, snatches of Greek overheard in the conversations of old-timers, fishermen stepping off the boats with their fresh catch and shops filled with souvenirs of the old country transport you to a land far away. But, as you walk or drive further into this community in northern Pinellas County you will discover more: a bustling downtown with unique restaurants, antique shops and other specialty stores. Tarpon Springs also boasts of modern health facilities and schools, upscale homes on the beautiful Anclote River and serene Lake Tarpon, parks, country clubs and marinas. The area, a blend of old traditions and new ideas, also has a thriving industrial park and a progressive business atmosphere.

Tarpon Springs is thought to have gotten its name when the daughter of A.W. Ormond, one of its early settlers, was standing on the bayou’s shore and saw fish jumping out of the water. It is said that Mary remarked, “Look at the tarpon spring!”

In 1887, railroad service to New York was initiated and the area soon became a favorite resort for winter visitors. Wealthy Northerners came to this popular destination and built beautiful Victorian mansions; established churches, schools and hotels and started businesses. Because the waters surrounding this area were teeming with sponges, divers from Greece came here and soon developed a flourishing sponge industry. Tarpon Springs became known as the “sponge capital of the world” with approximately 200 boats plying the waters from Apalachicola to Key West bringing in $3 million in revenue annually.

Hollywood even discovered Tarpon Springs in the 1950’s and several movies were filmed here, including "Beneath the Twelve-Mile Reef". The popular television program, Sea Hunt, also used this area for some of its on-location shots.

Tarpon Springs is probably best known for a ceremony that takes place here every year on January 6th, the Feast of the Epiphany. To commemorate the baptism of Jesus Christ by John the Baptist, the local residents, one-third of whom are of Greek descent, have a daylong celebration. It starts with a religious service at the St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral, followed by a procession to Spring Bayou. There the Greek Orthodox archbishop blesses the waters and the young men of Greek descent who will dive for a white wooden cross that the cleric tosses into the bayou. While thousands of spectators look on, these 16 to 18 year-old boys plunge into the chilly waters and search for the cross. The fortunate young man who emerges with the coveted prize is not only feted for the day but is also believed to have a life-long blessing from God.

Later, the celebrants hold a glendi (or festival) at nearby Craig Park with Greek food, music and dancing. In the evening, the Epiphany Ball takes place.