Origin & history
Christmas in Latvia has origins in both Christian and pre-Christian traditions. Christianity arrived in Latvia around the 12th–13th centuries with the Livonian Crusade, bringing the celebration of Christ's birth. However, local pagan customs associated with the winter solstice (Ziemassvētki) were merged with Christian practices, creating a unique blend. The Soviet era (1940–1991) suppressed religious celebrations, but Christmas was still observed privately. After independence in 1991, Christmas was reestablished as a public holiday on December 25.
Customs & traditions
Latvian Christmas customs emphasize family togetherness. On Christmas Eve (Ziemassvētki), families clean their homes, decorate a fir tree with natural ornaments like straw, apples, and candles, and prepare a festive meal. The main celebration occurs on Christmas Eve, with many attending midnight Mass. Traditional foods include grey peas with bacon (pelēkie zirņi ar speķi), sauerkraut, blood sausages (asinsdesa), and pepper cookies (piparkūkas). Gifts are often exchanged on Christmas Eve or morning. An old tradition involves dragging a Yule log through the village to burn away bad luck. Children look forward to visits from the 'Christmas Goat' (Ziemassvētku vecītis) or Father Christmas. Caroling and visiting neighbors are also common.
Why it is celebrated
Christmas Day is primarily a Christian celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, though non-religious Latvians observe it as a cultural holiday focused on family, charity, and folk traditions. It also marks the end of the Advent season and a time for reflection and renewal. For many, it is a peaceful day spent at home, emphasizing warmth and togetherness amid the dark winter.