Winter Solstice Traditions

Historically, Latvians celebrated the winter solstice to mark the return of the light. With the arrival of Christianity, we began to celebrate Christmas too. Today, in an interesting fusion of folk practices, Christian customs, and contemporary innovations, we celebrate both – the winter solstice on 21 December and Christmas Eve on 24 December. Let’s explore some compelling rituals and beliefs passed down from our ancestors – simple to follow and perfect for adding a Latvian touch to your festivities!

Forget dieting! Latvians eat nine foods for Ziemassvētki

Latvians spend a fair bit of time in the kitchen for Ziemassvētki because the occasion calls for serving nine different foods! According to Latvian folklore, the number nine is sacred and symbolizes cyclicity and the passing of time. In the ancient calendar, a week consisted of nine days.

Certain foods are a must on the festive table as they hold symbolic meaning. For example:

pigs’ snouts encourage prosperity
blood sausage, with its round shape, symbolizes the sun or the yearly cycle
peas and beans prevent tears
stewed sauerkraut gives energy and strength
pīrāgi or moon-shaped pies stuffed with bacon ensure a life full of surprises.

The Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia

The epic feast provides energy for dragging the yule log

The dragging of the yule log is a significant annual ritual where families drag a log around their property or groups of neighbors drag the log from home to home, finally burning it. This symbolic act is thought to represent the shedding of the year’s hardships, adversities, and misfortunes. It is a loud and joyous happening, involving song, dance, and play.

Bring out your inner child with a homemade mask

Another key component of a true Ziemassvētki celebration is mumming. Revelers craft their own masks from repurposed household goods and clothing turned inside-out. Dressed as cranes, horses, and other creatures both real and mythical, they venture from home to home, engaging neighbors in their fun and games. These masked visitors bring blessings and wishes of fertility and abundance.
Such community-centered activities are vital to surviving the darker months of the year, bringing a healthy dose of cheer.

Craft your own decorations to embellish and protect the home

Certain decorations also help create a uniquely festive atmosphere for Ziemassvētki. Before the baubles, ribbons, and Christmas trees of today, Latvians crafted their own adornments from what they found in the yard, surrounding fields and forests. The puzurs is a particularly popular piece. Handmade from straws and reeds, it is a figurative representation of the universe. Hung around the home, the puzurs is thought to ward off negative energy and emotions, welcoming light, peace, and fortune instead.

The Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia

Look around and observe the weather!

Regarding the future, Latvians also have numerous beliefs related to the weather and natural phenomena. For example, some believe that deep snow during the winter solstice predicts very hot weather during the summer solstice. It is also said that a blizzard before Christmas is a sign of a good year ahead. The stars are also thought to be a signal – a starry sky means you can expect a great harvest next year, while a dark sky forecasts the opposite. Many more such folk beliefs exist.
Whichever tradition you choose to follow, priecīgus Ziemassvētkus is what Latvians wish each other on the occasion!