As the Holiday season rapidly approaches for many around the world, I thought it would be interesting to focus on Latvian Christmas-time celebrations. It is noteworthy that Latvia is accredited with the first record decorating a pine tree with ornaments for public display during Christmas!). At the same time, I wanted to dive into an ancient tradition that began with the first pagan tribes that lived in Latvia. From forest rituals dating to hundreds of years ago to integration into current culture and festivities, I explored the history of such traditions through the stories and images from local Latvians I’ve met and with whom I've chatted!
The tradition I learned about is generally referred to as the Latvian Masked Processions, though the specific name varies by region (e.g., budēļi, ķekatas, kaļadas). This tradition is directly linked to the winter solstice and celebration of Christmas. It is almost like a combination of American Halloween and Christmas caroling. On the winter solstice, which is the shortest day of the year in the northern hemisphere, Latvians dress up in masked costumes, with masks ranging from animals (like bears) to people (like fortune tellers) to supernatural entities (like trolls). Participants then go house to house, singing and dancing through the streets.
