Origin & history
St. Stephen's Day originates from Christian tradition, commemorating Saint Stephen, a deacon in the early Christian church who was stoned to death circa 34–35 AD, making him the first martyr. In Latvia, the holiday was incorporated after the Christianization of the region in the 13th century by the Livonian Order. The Latvian name "Ziemassvētku otrā diena" (Second Day of Christmas) reflects its integration into the Christmas celebrations.
During the Soviet era (1940–1991), religious holidays were suppressed, but St. Stephen's Day persisted as a secular day off. After Latvia regained independence in 1991, the holiday was reaffirmed as a public holiday, though its religious significance is less emphasized in modern times. Today, it remains part of the official Christmas period, blending Christian and folk traditions.
Customs & traditions
In Latvia, St. Stephen's Day is traditionally a time for visiting extended family and friends, continuing the Christmas festivities. Many attend church services that focus on the theme of martyrdom and charity. A common custom is to perform acts of kindness, such as giving to the poor or volunteering, echoing Stephen's charitable nature as a deacon.
Food traditions include leftovers from Christmas Eve dinner, such as pork, sauerkraut, boiled peas, and grey peas with bacon. Gingerbread cookies and piparkūkas (spiced cookies) remain popular. Some families bake a special St. Stephen's Day bread. In rural areas, people may go sledding or ice skating, as the holiday falls during winter break. A modern adaptation is the "Boxing Day"-like sales in stores, though this is less common than in other countries.
Why it is celebrated
St. Stephen's Day holds significance as a continuation of the Christmas celebration, emphasizing the spiritual dimension of the season—specifically, the call to charity and remembrance of those who suffered for their faith. For many Latvians, it is a day to relax with loved ones after the busy Christmas Eve and Day, maintaining family bonds and traditions.
Culturally, the holiday reinforces the value of generosity and community support, aligning with the broader winter solstice traditions of gift-giving and hospitality. Though secularized, it serves as a reminder of Latvia's Christian heritage and the importance of compassion, making it a meaningful conclusion to the Christmas period.