Christmas in Latvia

Christmas, or winter festival, is an annual holiday celebration of winter solstice and the birth of Jesus Christ. For most Christians in the world, Christmas is celebrated from 24th - 26th of December.

In many countries, Christmas is a holiday, and the ya real so celebrated by people who are not Christians by religious beliefs.

Modern Christmas traditions are associated with the decoration of the Christmas tree, Santa Claus, baking ginger bread and the smell of tangerines.

The custom of making a Christmas tree in Livonia was known before 16th century.

Blackhead's notes provides information about the tradition of winter in Riga and refers to an earlier such event in 1476, and traditional" Christmas tree " has been adorned since then in Riga.

It could only be tufted with ribbons, dried flowers, straw weave dolls and, possibly, fruits. Later, this "tree", was carried out outside the celebration house with songs and was burned right there in the Town Hall Square around 6thof January.

Puzur is - a traditional Latvian room decoration for Christmas made of straw. Also it is known as a symbol of the universe.

Along with Christmas, the so - called Log's evening has been preserved as an ancient Latvian tradition, which reminds of an ancient ritual activity-rolling the log, imitating the course of the sun.

Even more widely known Christmas tradition was walking in bunches.

People, dressed in different masks, go from one village to another to bring a blessing and frighten of various evil spirits.

The idea of camouflage is based on ancient rhythms of fertility. Usually in masks tried to portray those spirits who wanted to tame someone or make an impression on someone.

One of the most well-known masks of ancient Latvia was a bear mask, because the bear, has an ability to frighten off all evil spirits.

Today Latvians still decorate natural fir trees with lighted candles and ornaments.

An integral part of every Christmas is a lavish meal, consisting of 12 foods which usually include such traditional dishes as a Christmas roast and grey peas, bacon rolls and gingerbread cookies.

Gifts usually are placed under the tree. To receive a gift, it is often required to recite a poem or sing a song.

Children's celebrations during Christmas often take place with a change of clothes for wild beasts and Gnomes, which is the lending of Ancient Traditions.