In Latvia, Christmas Eve is celebrated year on December 24th, and it is one of the most important holidays of the year. The celebration of Christmas Eve, or 'Ziemassvētku vakars' as it is known locally, typically begins at sunset and continues into the late hours of the night. The holiday has deep roots in Latvian folklore and ancient winter solstice traditions, incorporating unique customs and rituals that have been passed down through generations.
The preparation for Christmas Eve in Latvia starts long in advance with cleaning and decorating homes, baking traditional sweets, and preparing a feast. One of the distinctive traditions is to prepare a meal with nine different types of food, which is believed to bring abundance in the coming year. Furthermore, during the dinner, families often tell stories to each other, remembering the past year's events and discussing future plans and dreams.
Shared gifts also find their place in Latvian Christmas Eve traditions. Unlike many other nations where Santa Claus is the one delivering presents, in Latvia, the gifts are given by the 'Ziemassvētku vecītis' or 'Christmas Old Man'. Yet, to receive a gift, every family member must recite a poem. This delightful tradition makes gift-giving much more interactive and engaging, fostering a sense of togetherness and shared celebration.