| Day | Date | Holiday | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunday | Jan 01,2023 | New Year's Day | National holiday |
| Tuesday | Feb 14,2023 | Valentine's Day | Observance |
| Sunday | Mar 26,2023 | Daylight Saving Time starts | Clock change/Daylight Saving Time |
| Friday | Apr 07,2023 | Good Friday | National holiday |
| Saturday | Apr 08,2023 | Holy Saturday | Observance |
| Sunday | Apr 09,2023 | Easter Sunday | National holiday |
| Monday | Apr 10,2023 | Easter Monday | National holiday |
| Monday | May 01,2023 | Labour Day/May Day | National holiday |
| Monday | May 01,2023 | Constituent Assembly Convocation Day | National holiday |
| Thursday | May 04,2023 | Independence Restoration Day | National holiday |
| Friday | May 05,2023 | Public Holiday | National holiday |
| Sunday | May 14,2023 | Mothers' Day | National holiday |
| Saturday | May 20,2023 | Working Day | Working Day on Weekend |
| Sunday | May 28,2023 | Whitsunday | National holiday |
| Friday | Jun 23,2023 | Midsummer Eve | National holiday |
| Saturday | Jun 24,2023 | Midsummer Day | National holiday |
| Sunday | Jul 09,2023 | Last Day of the Song and Dance Festival | National holiday |
| Sunday | Sep 10,2023 | Fathers' Day | Observance |
| Sunday | Oct 29,2023 | Daylight Saving Time ends | Clock change/Daylight Saving Time |
| Tuesday | Oct 31,2023 | Halloween | Observance |
| Saturday | Nov 18,2023 | Republic of Latvia Proclamation Day | National holiday |
| Monday | Nov 20,2023 | Republic of Latvia Proclamation Day observed | National holiday |
| Sunday | Dec 24,2023 | Christmas Eve | National holiday |
| Monday | Dec 25,2023 | Christmas Day | National holiday |
| Tuesday | Dec 26,2023 | Second Day of Christmas | National holiday |
| Sunday | Dec 31,2023 | New Year's Eve | National holiday |
New Year's Day, known as "Jaunais gads" in Latvia, marks the beginning of the year with festive celebrations, fireworks, and gatherings. It symbolizes hope and new beginnings for Latvians, often celebrated with family and friends. It's a time for reflection and setting resolutions for the year ahead.
Valentine's Day, called "Svētā Valentīna diena" in Latvia, is a day to express love and affection to partners and loved ones. It is celebrated with gifts, cards, and romantic gestures. While not a traditional Latvian holiday, it has gained popularity and is cherished by couples as a day of love and appreciation.
Daylight Saving Time marks the beginning of longer daylight hours during spring and summer. Latvians adjust their clocks forward to make the most of natural light. This change in time is important for outdoor activities and energy conservation, contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle.
Good Friday, known as "Labās Piektdienas" in Latvia, is a Christian holiday commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is observed with church services and reflection on the significance of Christ's sacrifice. It's a time for spiritual contemplation and a reminder of the religious heritage in Latvia.
Holy Saturday, or "Svētā Sestdiena," is the day before Easter Sunday. It is a time of anticipation and preparation for the Easter celebration. Many Latvians participate in church services and traditions like painting eggs. It symbolizes the transition from mourning to joy, as Easter signifies Christ's resurrection.
Easter Sunday, "Lieldienas" in Latvian, is a significant Christian holiday celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Latvians attend church services, share meals with family, and exchange Easter eggs. It symbolizes rebirth and new life, and the colorful eggs represent hope and renewal in Latvian culture.
Easter Monday, "Otrās Lieldienas," continues the Easter celebrations. It's a public holiday in Latvia, and people often enjoy outdoor activities and picnics with family and friends. It extends the spirit of Easter, fostering togetherness and community bonds among Latvians.
Labour Day, also known as "Darba svētki" or "Maija diena," is a global celebration of workers' rights and achievements. In Latvia, it's a day to honor laborers with parades, demonstrations, and cultural events. It underscores the importance of workers in society and their contributions to the nation's development.
Constituent Assembly Convocation Day, "Satversmes sapulces sasaukšanas diena," marks the establishment of Latvia's constitution in 1920. It celebrates the country's democratic foundation and the principles of justice and equality. It's a day to appreciate the nation's commitment to democratic values.
Independence Restoration Day, "Latvijas Republikas Neatkarības atjaunošanas diena," celebrates Latvia regaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1990. It's a patriotic holiday with parades, concerts, and flag-raising ceremonies, symbolizing the nation's resilience and determination to preserve its sovereignty.
Public Holiday, "Svētku diena," signifies various official holidays when government offices and many businesses are closed. It allows Latvians to observe important cultural, historical, and religious events. The specific activities and cultural importance vary depending on the occasion being observed.
Mothers' Day, "Mātes diena," is a day to honor and show appreciation to mothers and mother figures for their love and care. It is celebrated with gifts, flowers, and heartfelt gestures. It highlights the maternal role's significance and the bonds of family in Latvian society.
Working Day, "Darbdienas," represents regular business days when people go about their work and daily routines. While not a holiday, it's essential for the functioning of society, contributing to economic growth and individual livelihoods in Latvia.
Whitsunday, "Lieldienu svētdiena" or "Pentekoste," is a Christian holiday marking the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles. Latvians attend church services and engage in traditions like decorating homes with greenery and flowers. It symbolizes the spiritual presence in Latvian culture.
Midsummer Eve, "Jāņi," is one of Latvia's most cherished and ancient celebrations. It coincides with the summer solstice, marked by bonfires, singing, dancing, and folk rituals. Jāņi represents the connection between Latvians, nature, and their cultural heritage, fostering unity and a strong sense of identity.
Midsummer Day, "Jāņi," follows Midsummer Eve and continues the festivities. Latvians gather in the countryside, wear flower crowns, and enjoy traditional foods like cheese and beer. It's a day to embrace Latvian folklore and celebrate the vibrant spirit of summer and the nation's traditions.
The Last Day of the Song and Dance Festival, "Dziesmu un Deju svētku noslēguma koncerts," marks the culmination of Latvia's cherished cultural event. It showcases traditional songs and dances, fostering cultural preservation and pride. It symbolizes the power of music and dance to unite Latvians across generations.
Fathers' Day, "Tēvu diena," honors fathers and father figures for their role in families and society. It is celebrated with gifts, outings, and expressions of gratitude. Fathers' Day underscores the importance of paternal bonds and the values of responsibility and support within Latvian families.
Daylight Saving Time ends in autumn, "Ziemas laika beigas," as clocks are set back to standard time. This change ensures shorter daylight hours during the winter months. It has practical implications for daily routines and signifies the transition to the colder season in Latvia.
Halloween, although not a traditional Latvian holiday, has gained popularity among the younger generation. It involves dressing up in costumes, carving pumpkins, and enjoying spooky-themed activities. It offers a fun and playful experience, contributing to cultural diversity and global traditions in Latvia.
Republic of Latvia Proclamation Day, "Latvijas Republikas pasludināšanas diena," commemorates Latvia's declaration of independence in 1918. It reflects the nation's commitment to sovereignty, democracy, and freedom. The day is marked with ceremonies, flag-raising, and historical remembrance.
Christmas Eve, "Ziemassvētku vakars," is a cherished time when Latvian families gather to exchange gifts and share a festive meal. Traditional customs include decorating Christmas trees and singing carols. It signifies the joy of giving and the importance of family bonds in Latvian culture.
Christmas Day, "Ziemassvētki," is a Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. Latvians attend church services and continue their family gatherings and festive meals. It symbolizes the message of peace, love, and goodwill, bringing warmth and togetherness during the winter season.
The Second Day of Christmas, "Otrās Ziemassvētku dienas," extends the Christmas celebrations. Families continue their traditions and festivities, often visiting friends and relatives. It provides an opportunity for further bonding and spreading the joy of the holiday season in Latvia.
New Year's Eve, "Jaungada vakars," bids farewell to the old year and welcomes the new one with grand parties, fireworks, and countdowns. It's a time for reflection, optimism, and festivities shared with loved ones. It symbolizes hope and new opportunities as Latvians embrace the future.
