Ziemassvētki in Latvia
Christmas Day is a holiday in Latvia. Christmas Day is called Ziemassvētki in Latvia
When is Christmas Day in Latvia
Christmas Day is celebrated on 25, December, 2023 in Latvia.
About Ziemassvētki in Latvia
Ziemassvētki, also known as Christmas, is one of the most important holidays in Latvia. It is celebrated on December 25th and 26th, following the Western Christian tradition. Ziemassvētki is a time for families and loved ones to come together, exchange gifts, and enjoy festive meals.
Preparations for Ziemassvētki begin weeks in advance. Latvians decorate their homes with various ornaments, lights, and a Christmas tree, which is often adorned with traditional handmade decorations. Many families also create a Nativity scene, known as “Jēzuskrusts,” to commemorate the birth of Jesus.
On the evening of December 24th, Latvians celebrate Christmas Eve, known as “Vecais gads” or “Vecvakars.” It is considered the most important part of the Ziemassvētki celebrations. Families gather for a festive meal, which typically includes traditional dishes such as grey peas with bacon, sauerkraut, gingerbread cookies, and a special Christmas cake called “Rupjmaize.”
After the meal, families exchange gifts, which are believed to be brought by “Ziemassvētku vecītis” or Santa Claus. It is common for children to recite poems or sing songs to receive their presents. In some regions, a person dressed as Santa Claus visits homes to distribute gifts and spread joy.
On Christmas Day, Latvians often attend church services to celebrate the religious aspect of Ziemassvētki. Many churches hold special Christmas concerts and performances, featuring traditional Latvian carols and hymns.
The celebrations continue on December 26th, which is known as the Second Day of Christmas or “Otrie Ziemassvētki.” It is a time for families to relax, visit relatives, and enjoy leftover holiday meals. Some people also take part in outdoor activities, such as ice skating or sledding, if weather permits.
Overall, Ziemassvētki in Latvia is a time of joy, togetherness, and reflection. It combines both religious and cultural traditions, creating a unique and festive atmosphere throughout the country.
History of Ziemassvētki in Latvia
Ziemassvētki, also known as Christmas, is a widely celebrated holiday in Latvia. The history of Ziemassvētki can be traced back to ancient pagan traditions that were later incorporated into Christian practices.
Before the arrival of Christianity, Latvians celebrated the winter solstice, known as Jāņi, which marked the longest night of the year. It was a time when people believed that the sun would be reborn and the days would gradually become longer again. This celebration was filled with various rituals, such as lighting bonfires, singing songs, and performing dances.
When Christianity was introduced to Latvia in the 12th century, the pagan traditions of Jāņi were gradually merged with Christian beliefs. The celebration of Christmas began to take shape, incorporating elements from both the pagan and Christian traditions.
During the Soviet era, religious celebrations were suppressed, and Ziemassvētki was not openly celebrated. Instead, New Year’s Eve became the main holiday, with the arrival of “Ded Moroz” (Father Frost) and his granddaughter “Snegurochka” (Snow Maiden) being the focal point of the festivities.
After Latvia regained its independence in 1991, Ziemassvētki regained its prominence as the main winter holiday. Today, it is celebrated from December 24th to 26th, with Christmas Eve being the most important day.
The celebration of Ziemassvētki in Latvia involves various customs and traditions. Families gather to exchange gifts, decorate Christmas trees, and enjoy festive meals. Christmas markets are set up in towns and cities, offering a variety of traditional foods, crafts, and entertainment. Carol singing and attending church services are also common practices during this time.
One unique Latvian tradition during Ziemassvētki is the “mumming” or “masking” tradition. People dress up in costumes, often resembling animals or mythical creatures, and go from house to house, singing songs and performing skits. This tradition is believed to chase away evil spirits and bring good luck for the upcoming year.
Overall, Ziemassvētki in Latvia is a blend of ancient pagan customs and Christian traditions. It is a time for families to come together, celebrate, and share joy during the winter season.
How is Christmas Day celebrated in Latvia
Ziemassvētki, also known as Christmas, is one of the most important and widely celebrated holidays in Latvia. Here is how it is typically celebrated:
-
Christmas Eve: The main celebration takes place on Christmas Eve, which is known as “Svētdienas vakars” or “Holy Evening.” Families gather together for a festive meal, usually consisting of traditional Latvian dishes like grey peas with bacon, sausages, sauerkraut, and gingerbread cookies.
-
Decorations: Homes are decorated with various ornaments, including Christmas trees adorned with candles, tinsel, and handmade decorations. Traditional Latvian symbols, such as straw ornaments and wreaths, are also used to decorate homes.
-
Church Services: Many Latvians attend church services on Christmas Eve, especially the midnight Mass. These services are an important part of the religious aspect of the holiday.
-
Gift Exchange: After the meal, families exchange gifts. In Latvia, it is common for children to believe that Santa Claus, known as “Ziemassvētku vecītis” or “Christmas Grandfather,” brings the gifts. The presents are placed under the Christmas tree and opened after dinner.
-
Caroling: Caroling, known as “Ziemassvētku dziesmas,” is a popular tradition in Latvia. Groups of children and adults go from house to house singing traditional Christmas carols and spreading holiday cheer. In return, they are often given small treats or money.
-
Bonfires and Fireworks: In some rural areas, bonfires are lit on Christmas Eve to symbolize the victory of light over darkness. Fireworks are also commonly used to celebrate the holiday.
-
Midnight Walk: It is a tradition for families to take a walk after the Christmas Eve celebrations, often to a nearby forest or park. This walk is seen as a way to bond with loved ones and enjoy the peacefulness of the night.
Overall, Ziemassvētki is a time for Latvians to come together with family and friends, exchange gifts, enjoy festive meals, and celebrate the joyous spirit of Christmas.
Dates
Christmas Day will be celebrated in Latvia on 2023-12-25, 2024-12-25, 2025-12-25, 2026-12-25, 2027-12-25 in the comming years.
