Midsummer Eve in Latvia (Līgo Diena)

Midsummer Eve, known as Līgo Diena in Latvia, is one of the most significant and widely celebrated national holidays. It takes place annually from the evening of June 23rd to the 24th, coinciding with St. John's Day (Jāņi).

Historical Background:

• Pre-Christian Origins: The festival has its roots in ancient agricultural traditions and pagan celebrations of the summer solstice, the longest day and shortest night of the year.
• Christian Influence: With the advent of Christianity, the holiday was merged with St. John’s Day to honor Saint John the Baptist, but many pagan elements remain.

Traditions and Celebrations:

• Floral Wreaths: Women typically wear wreaths made from flowers and herbs, while men wear wreaths made from oak leaves.
• Bonfires: People light large bonfires after sunset to ward off evil spirits and celebrate light.
• Singing and Dancing: Traditional Latvian folk songs (dainas) are sung, often accompanied by dancing around the bonfire.
• Special Foods: Cheese with caraway seeds and beer are traditional foods consumed during this holiday.
• Herbal Magic: Collecting herbs on this night is thought to have magical properties; it's also a common practice to search for the mythical "fern flower," which is said to bloom only on Midsummer Night.

Activities:

• Community Gatherings: Villages and cities alike organize gatherings with music, dance, food, and traditional games.
• Staying Awake: To honor the shortest night of the year, many people try to stay awake until sunrise.
• Jumping Over Fires: Couples jump over bonfires together for good luck and prosperity.

The celebration of Līgo Diena is a significant part of Latvian culture that combines historical customs with contemporary festivity. It brings together families and communities in a vibrant expression of national identity.