Midsummer Eve in Latvia, known as Līgo Vakars, is celebrated with bonfires, songs, dancing and flower wreaths. It honors ancient pagan traditions of nature, fertility and the summer solstice, symbolizing light's triumph over darkness.

When is Midsummer Eve?

Midsummer Eve in Latvia is celebrated on June 23 every year.

The following is the list of Midsummer Eve from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Midsummer Eve?

Midsummer Eve, known in Latvia as Līgo Vakars, is one of the oldest and most beloved Latvian holidays, dating back thousands of years to pre-Christian times. The celebration is rooted in ancient pagan fertility and sun-worship traditions, marking the summer solstice — the longest day and shortest night of the year.

Early Latvians, like many other Northern European peoples, believed that during the solstice, nature reached its peak strength, and the sun's power was at its greatest. The festival was held to ensure fertility, prosperity, and protection for people, livestock and crops in the coming year.

Midsummer Eve in Latvia revolves around fire, song, and nature, elements believed to protect against evil and bring blessings. Bonfires are lit across the countryside to honor the sun and ward off evil spirits. Couples often leap over bonfires for luck, and it is said that whoever finds the mythical fern flower on this night will gain eternal happiness and love.

When Christianity spread to Latvia in the 13th century, the church tried to suppress or Christianize pagan solstice celebrations. The holiday was merged with the Feast of St. John the Baptist (Jāņi), celebrated on June 24.

Over time, the terms Līgo and Jāņi became almost interchangeable, though Līgo technically refers to Midsummer Eve (June 23) and Jāņi to Midsummer Day (June 24). Under Soviet occupation, Līgo and Jāņi celebrations were discouraged due to their national and religious character.

After the restoration of independence in 1990, Midsummer celebrations returned to full public prominence. Midsummer Eve (June 23) and Midsummer Day (June 24) were reinstated as national holidays, celebrated across Latvia with great enthusiasm.

Today, Midsummer Eve remains a vital expression of Latvian identity, celebrated by nearly everyone. It reflects Latvia's deep agricultural roots and enduring love of folk tradition, preserved through centuries of change.