Posted on Dec 22, 2025 / History

In Latvia, Christmas combines festive family gatherings with folk traditions and seasonal foods. Christmas celebrations often include feasts with roast pork, peas and gingerbread cookies enjoyed with relatives. In historic Riga, a festive Christmas market is held in Dome Square from late November through early January, offering traditional crafts, treats and seasonal cheer. Many Latvians observe “12 Days of Christmas,” with customs and meals that reflect seasonal folklore. Decorations, lights and nativity scenes help set the holiday mood in towns and cities. People visit church services to celebrate the religious foundation of the holiday. Some families follow older customs of divination and symbolic objects under plates to predict luck in the coming year. Latvian Christmas blends community market life with festive cuisine and traditional celebrations.
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