Otrie Ziemassvētki in Latvia
Second Day of Christmas is a holiday in Latvia. Second Day of Christmas is called Otrie Ziemassvētki in Latvia
When is Second Day of Christmas in Latvia
Second Day of Christmas is celebrated on 26, December, 2023 in Latvia.
About Otrie Ziemassvētki in Latvia
Otrie Ziemassvētki, also known as the Second Christmas, is a holiday celebrated in Latvia. It takes place on January 6th, which is the 12th day of Christmas according to the Gregorian calendar. This holiday is part of the Latvian Christmas traditions and is observed by both religious and non-religious individuals.
Otrie Ziemassvētki has its roots in ancient Latvian pagan customs, which were later adapted to incorporate Christian elements. It is believed to be a time when the spirits of the ancestors visit their living relatives. The holiday is also associated with the end of the Christmas season and the beginning of a new year.
On Otrie Ziemassvētki, Latvians traditionally gather with their families and loved ones to celebrate. They often visit cemeteries to pay respects to their ancestors by lighting candles and leaving offerings. This act is believed to honor and remember the deceased, as well as ensure their well-being in the afterlife.
Another important aspect of Otrie Ziemassvētki is the preparation and consumption of special foods. Families typically enjoy a festive meal together, featuring traditional Latvian dishes such as grey peas with bacon, sauerkraut, and gingerbread cookies. It is also common to exchange gifts during this time, similar to the Christmas traditions in other countries.
In recent years, there has been a revival of interest in Otrie Ziemassvētki as a way to preserve Latvian cultural heritage. Many people participate in public events and festivals, where they can experience traditional music, dancing, and crafts. This holiday serves as a reminder of Latvia’s rich cultural history and provides an opportunity for people to come together and celebrate their shared traditions.
Overall, Otrie Ziemassvētki is a unique holiday in Latvia that combines ancient pagan customs with Christian traditions. It is a time for families to gather, remember their ancestors, and enjoy traditional food and festivities.
History of Otrie Ziemassvētki in Latvia
Otrie Ziemassvētki, also known as “Second Christmas” or “Old Christmas,” is a holiday celebrated in Latvia on January 6th. It has its roots in ancient pagan traditions and is closely associated with the winter solstice.
Before the Christianization of Latvia, ancient Latvians celebrated the winter solstice as a time of rebirth and renewal. It was believed that during this time, the sun would start its journey back to the earth, bringing light and warmth. The celebration included various rituals and customs to ensure a successful transition into the new year.
With the arrival of Christianity in Latvia, the winter solstice celebrations were merged with Christmas traditions. However, due to the difference between the Julian and Gregorian calendars, Christmas in Latvia was originally celebrated on January 6th, according to the Julian calendar.
In the 18th century, Latvia adopted the Gregorian calendar, shifting the celebration of Christmas to December 25th. However, many Latvians continued to celebrate the old Christmas on January 6th, which became known as Otrie Ziemassvētki.
Otrie Ziemassvētki has retained some of the ancient pagan customs and traditions associated with the winter solstice. People gather around bonfires, sing traditional songs, and perform folk dances. It is believed that during this time, the spirits of ancestors visit the earth, and people leave food and drink for them.
One of the most important traditions of Otrie Ziemassvētki is the baking of special round-shaped bread called “kūča.” The bread is decorated with various symbols and is shared with family and friends. It is believed that by sharing this bread, good luck and prosperity will be brought into the new year.
Otrie Ziemassvētki is also a time for divination and fortune-telling. Various rituals are performed to predict the future, such as pouring molten lead into cold water to create shapes that symbolize different events or using mirrors to see into the future.
Today, Otrie Ziemassvētki is celebrated alongside Christmas in Latvia. It is a time for families to come together, exchange gifts, and enjoy festive meals. The holiday holds both cultural and religious significance, reflecting the rich history and traditions of Latvia.
How is Second Day of Christmas celebrated in Latvia
Otrie Ziemassvētki, also known as “Second Christmas” or “Old Christmas,” is celebrated in Latvia on January 6th, following the Gregorian calendar. Here is how it is celebrated:
-
Traditional Customs: Latvians follow a range of customs and traditions during Otrie Ziemassvētki. These include:
-
Kocēni: A group of people dressed in traditional costumes go from house to house, singing traditional songs and performing dances. They are usually rewarded with treats or money.
-
Masked Processions: People dress up in masks and costumes, representing various characters from folklore and mythology. They parade through the streets and perform traditional dances.
-
Bonfires: Bonfires are lit to symbolize the end of winter and the beginning of a new year. People gather around the fire, sing songs, and enjoy traditional food and drinks.
-
-
Traditional Food: Latvians prepare and enjoy traditional dishes during Otrie Ziemassvētki. Some popular foods include:
-
Pīrāgi: Small baked pastries filled with bacon, onions, or cabbage.
-
Sauerkraut: Fermented cabbage, often served as a side dish.
-
Gingerbread: Spiced cookies, often shaped like hearts or animals, decorated with icing.
-
Grey Peas with Bacon: A traditional dish made with dried peas and bacon.
-
-
Family Gatherings: Otrie Ziemassvētki is a time for families to come together and celebrate. Relatives and friends gather for a festive meal, exchange gifts, and spend quality time together.
-
Church Services: Many Latvians attend church services on Otrie Ziemassvētki to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The services often include traditional hymns and prayers.
-
Winter Activities: As Otrie Ziemassvētki takes place in winter, people often engage in various outdoor activities. These may include ice skating, skiing, sledding, or simply enjoying the snowy landscapes.
Overall, Otrie Ziemassvētki in Latvia is a festive and joyous celebration that combines traditional customs, delicious food, family gatherings, and a sense of community.
Dates
Second Day of Christmas will be celebrated in Latvia on 2023-12-26, 2024-12-26, 2025-12-26, 2026-12-26, 2027-12-26 in the comming years.