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Easter Sunday in Latvia, known as "Lieldienas," is a significant celebration blending Christian traditions and ancient Latvian springtime customs. The day marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ in the Christian faith, but for many Latvians, it also signifies the awakening of nature and the start of spring.
The traditions of Easter in Latvia have deep roots in both pre-Christian and Christian rituals. Historically, Latvians would celebrate the end of winter and the rebirth of the earth with various fertility rites and customs to ensure a prosperous year ahead.
Egg Decorating: One of the most cherished Easter traditions in Latvia is egg decorating. The eggs are dyed using natural materials like onion peels or birch leaves, often resulting in intricate patterns created by employing techniques such as wax-resist or leaf prints.
Egg Games: After decorating, these eggs are used in games such as egg rolling or egg tapping, which symbolize the sun's movement across the sky and are believed to bring good luck.
Swinging: Another popular tradition is swinging on large wooden swings, which is not only fun but also thought to bring vitality and health by getting closer to the sun.
Traditional Foods: Special dishes are prepared for Easter celebrations including "paska" (a sweet bread), various types of cheeses, and dishes containing eggs.
On Easter Sunday, people in Latvia may attend church services to celebrate the religious aspect of Easter. Families gather for festive meals that include traditional foods. Additionally, it's common for people to exchange beautifully decorated eggs as gifts. Outdoor activities such as picnics and enjoying nature are also part of modern celebrations when weather permits.
Throughout Latvia during Easter weekend, various cultural events take place including concerts, exhibitions, and craft markets that highlight Latvian folk traditions. Despite modern influences, many Latvians continue to honor both their ancestral customs and contemporary religious practices on this day.
