Jāņi – June 24th – The Victory of the Sun and Nature in Bloom 

Jāņi (Midsummer) is the festival where Latvians celebrate their deep connection with nature. It is a mystical time when the veil between the worlds is thin. The central ritual is keeping the light alive – lighting bonfires to bless the fields with fertility. Key traditions include singing "Līgo" songs and weaving wreaths: oak leaves for men to symbolize strength, and wildflowers for women to symbolize beauty and protection.

Traditional beliefs:

• Magic of the dew: Washing your face in the morning dew before sunrise ensures beauty and health for the whole year.

• Wind direction: If the wind blows from the north on Jāņi night, a harsh winter is coming; if from the south – a mild one.

• Rain: Rain during Jāņi promises a rich harvest but less hay for the farmers.