New Year's Day in Latvia

New Year's Day, known as "Jaungada diena" in Latvian, is celebrated on January 1st and marks the first day of the year in the Gregorian calendar. It is an official public holiday in Latvia, as in many other countries, signaling the start of a new year.

History and Traditions:

New Year's celebrations in Latvia have been influenced by various cultural traditions over time, including pre-Christian pagan customs and later Christian and Western influences. Historically, the day was seen as a time for warding off evil spirits and ensuring good fortune for the coming year.

Traditional activities include:

• Feasting: Like many cultures, Latvians prepare special meals for New Year's that often involve pork dishes, symbolizing prosperity.
• Mummering: People dress up in costumes and masks to participate in mummery or "masku gājieni," visiting homes with songs and dances to drive away evil spirits.
• Fireworks: Spectacular fireworks displays are common at midnight on New Year's Eve to welcome the new year.
• Fortune-telling: Some still engage in old fortune-telling traditions to predict events or fortunes for the upcoming year.

Contemporary Celebrations:

Modern-day celebrations include:

• Public Events: Concerts, parties, and public countdowns are held across cities like Riga.
• Private Gatherings: Families and friends gather to celebrate together with food, drinks, music, and games.
• Resolutions: Many people make New Year's resolutions as commitments to self-improvement or goals.

On New Year's Day itself, after the festivities of New Year's Eve, it is common for people to relax at home or visit loved ones. Some may attend church services or participate in outdoor activities like ice skating if weather permits.