New Year’s Day (Jaunais Gads, January 1) marks the beginning of the calendar year and is a nationwide public holiday in Latvia. After festive New Year’s Eve celebrations with fireworks and social gatherings, the day itself is usually calm. Most shops, offices, and public institutions are closed, and many people spend the day resting, visiting family, or enjoying winter walks.

Good Friday (Lielā Piektdiena, Friday before Easter) commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and is observed as a public holiday in Latvia. Traditionally, it is a quiet and reflective day with limited commercial activity. Many businesses remain closed, and public events are minimal, as the day forms part of the Easter holiday period.

Easter Sunday (Lieldienas) celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ and is an important Christian holiday in Latvia. Families often gather for festive meals and follow traditional customs, including decorating eggs and participating in symbolic rituals related to spring and renewal. As the holiday falls on a Sunday, the atmosphere is generally peaceful and family-oriented.

Easter Monday (Otrās Lieldienas, Monday after Easter) continues the Easter celebrations and is a public holiday across Latvia. It is traditionally associated with outdoor activities, visiting relatives, and enjoying the arrival of spring. Many workplaces and schools remain closed, allowing families to extend their holiday weekend.

Labour Day (Darba svētki, May 1) in Latvia celebrates workers and social rights and is observed as a nationwide public holiday. The day is often marked by public events, concerts, and gatherings, especially in cities. For many people, it is also a spring holiday spent outdoors with family and friends.

Restoration of Independence Day (Latvijas Republikas Neatkarības atjaunošanas diena, May 4) commemorates Latvia’s declaration of restored independence in 1990. It is one of the most important national holidays in modern Latvian history. The day is marked by official ceremonies, concerts, flag displays, and public celebrations throughout the country.

Mother’s Day (Mātes diena, second Sunday of May) is a public holiday in Latvia and is dedicated to honoring mothers and family values. Families typically celebrate by giving flowers, gifts, and spending time together. Schools and kindergartens often organize performances and activities, making the day especially meaningful for families with children.

Pentecost (Vasarsvētki, Whitsunday) is a public holiday in Latvia marking the Christian feast of the Holy Spirit. Many people attend church services or spend the day with family, and most offices and schools are closed.

Midsummer Eve (Līgo Diena, June 23) is one of the most important and widely celebrated holidays in Latvian culture. It marks the summer solstice and is deeply rooted in ancient traditions. Celebrations include wearing flower wreaths, singing traditional songs, lighting bonfires, and staying awake through the shortest night of the year. Most businesses are closed as people gather with family and friends.

Midsummer Day (Jāņi, June 24) continues the celebrations of the summer solstice and is a public holiday in Latvia. The day is typically spent relaxing after the night-long festivities of Līgo Diena. It is closely associated with Latvian identity, folklore, and nature, making it one of the most culturally significant holidays of the year.

Final Day of the Nationwide Latvian Song and Dance Celebration marks the closing of the country’s flagship cultural festival, held every five years. The closing day is a public holiday, and many people attend performances or watch broadcasts, making it a major national cultural event.

Proclamation Day of the Republic of Latvia (Latvijas Republikas proklamēšanas diena, November 18) commemorates the founding of the Republic of Latvia in 1918. It is a major national holiday marked by official ceremonies, parades, concerts, and fireworks. The Latvian flag is widely displayed, and the day is observed with strong patriotic sentiment.

Christmas Eve (Ziemassvētku vakars, December 24) is a public holiday in Latvia and an essential part of the Christmas season. Families traditionally gather in the evening to share festive meals, exchange gifts, and follow Christmas customs. Most shops and businesses close early, and public transport operates on reduced schedules.

Christmas Day (Ziemassvētki, December 25) celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and is observed as a nationwide public holiday. It is usually a calm and family-focused day, with most businesses and public institutions closed. People spend the day resting, visiting relatives, and enjoying the festive atmosphere.

Second Christmas Day (Otrie Ziemassvētki, December 26) continues the Christmas celebrations in Latvia. It is commonly spent visiting friends and extended family or enjoying winter activities. Some shops reopen, but many people remain on holiday, making it a relaxed continuation of the festive period.

New Year’s Eve (Vecgada vakars, December 31) is a public holiday in Latvia and one of the most festive days of the year. People prepare for celebrations with family and friends, enjoy special meals, and gather in public spaces for fireworks at midnight. Many businesses close early as the country prepares to welcome the New Year.