Latvia Public Holidays
Latvia Public Holidays
Searching for the national holidays in Latvia? All public holidays in Latvia are treated like Sundays. This means that most of the Latvia employees have a day off and all schools are closed on these office holidays. If you are planning a trip to Latvia and want to know what the national and regional holidays are, check the details in the tables below.
New Year’s Day (January 1)
Description
New Year’s Day, celebrated on January 1st, marks the beginning of the new year in Latvia. It is a national public holiday observed by the general population. On this day, Latvians come together to reflect on the past year and celebrate the start of the new year with various social and family activities.
New Year’s Eve (December 31st) is often more widely celebrated with fireworks, parties, and outdoor gatherings. At midnight, people gather in cities and towns to watch fireworks and celebrate. January 1st, however, is generally quieter, as people spend time with their families, resting, or attending church services for blessings for the year ahead.
Duration
New Year’s Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Latvia.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close, though essential services remain operational.
Good Friday (Variable Date, March or April)
Description
Good Friday, celebrated by Christians in Latvia, commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It is observed on the Friday before Easter Sunday and is part of the Christian Holy Week. The date of Good Friday varies each year, depending on the ecclesiastical lunar calendar, but it typically falls in March or April.
In Latvia, Good Friday is observed with solemn church services, where people reflect on the passion and sacrifice of Christ. Many Christians fast or attend processions, focusing on repentance and prayer. It is a day of religious observance and is widely respected by the Christian community in Latvia.
Duration
Good Friday is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: Primarily Christians.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Easter Sunday (Variable Date, March or April)
Description
Easter Sunday celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ and is one of the most important religious holidays in Latvia. Like Good Friday, the date of Easter Sunday changes every year based on the ecclesiastical lunar calendar, but it typically falls in March or April.
Easter Sunday is a day of joy, reflection, and celebration for the people of Latvia. Traditionally, people attend church services in the morning to celebrate the resurrection of Christ. Easter is also marked by festive meals, with foods like eggs, lamb, and traditional Latvian pastries served. Many Latvians participate in outdoor activities and social gatherings with family and friends. Easter egg painting and egg rolling are popular activities for children.
Duration
Easter Sunday is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Latvia, particularly Christians.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Labour Day (May 1)
Description
Labour Day, celebrated on May 1st, is an international holiday that honors the contributions of workers and the labor movement. In Latvia, it is a public holiday marked by parades, rallies, and speeches. Labour Day celebrations focus on workers’ rights, social justice, and solidarity.
In Latvia, the holiday is often observed by workers’ unions, political groups, and civic organizations. The day is marked by public demonstrations, speeches from political leaders, and discussions about labor rights and conditions. Many people also enjoy time off with their families, participating in outdoor activities and community events.
Duration
Labour Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens, particularly workers and union members.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Independence Day (November 18)
Description
Independence Day in Latvia is celebrated on November 18th, marking the day in 1918 when Latvia declared its independence from the Russian Empire. This holiday is a significant national occasion and a symbol of Latvia’s sovereignty, resilience, and independence.
The day is observed with grand celebrations, including a military parade, speeches by political leaders, concerts, and cultural performances. The day is also an occasion for people to reflect on Latvia’s progress since independence and to celebrate its democratic achievements. In the capital, Riga, public spaces are adorned with flags and decorations, and citizens come together to participate in various festivities.
Duration
Independence Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Latvia.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Christmas Day (December 25)
Description
Christmas Day, celebrated on December 25th, marks the birth of Jesus Christ and is an important religious holiday for Christians in Latvia. Christmas is widely celebrated across the country, and it is a time for family gatherings, religious observance, and festive meals.
In Latvia, Christmas is often observed with church services, where people gather to celebrate the birth of Christ. The holiday is also marked by family traditions, including the decoration of Christmas trees, the exchange of gifts, and the preparation of traditional meals such as roast pork, potatoes, and sauerkraut. People in Latvia also enjoy festive pastries like “pīrāgi” (filled pastries) and “krāsnī” (sweet Christmas bread). The Christmas season is a time for peace, reflection, and family unity.
Duration
Christmas Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Latvia, particularly Christians.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Boxing Day (December 26)
Description
Boxing Day, celebrated on December 26th, follows Christmas Day and is a day traditionally associated with giving gifts to the less fortunate. Although it is not as widely celebrated as Christmas Day itself, it is still recognized in Latvia as part of the Christmas festivities.
In Latvia, Boxing Day is a time to relax, spend time with family, and enjoy leftovers from the Christmas meal. People may attend church services, reflect on the Christmas season, or take part in outdoor activities. Some families also use Boxing Day to visit extended family members and friends, continuing the festive spirit of the holiday season.
Duration
Boxing Day is a one-day holiday, with businesses, government offices, and schools closed.
Groups Affected
- General Public: All citizens of Latvia.
- Government Employees: Given the day off.
- Private Sector: Most businesses close for the day, though essential services remain operational.
Table: Overview of Public Holidays in Latvia
| Public Holiday | Date | Duration | Groups Affected |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 | 1 day | General Public, Government Employees |
| Good Friday | Variable (March/April) | 1 day | General Public (Christians) |
| Easter Sunday | Variable (March/April) | 1 day | General Public (Christians) |
| Labour Day | May 1 | 1 day | General Public, Workers |
| Independence Day | November 18 | 1 day | General Public |
| Christmas Day | December 25 | 1 day | General Public (Christians) |
| Boxing Day | December 26 | 1 day | General Public |
