Celebrating Together

Celebrating special occasions is an important and integral part of people’s daily lives. Whether birthdays, personal achievements, family milestones, seasonal customs, national holidays or religious events, celebrations bring joy, strengthen bonds, and bring together families, friends and fellow citizens. Over time, festive traditions, forms of celebration, the ways they manifest and are organised have changed; however, the most important aspect remains the same: celebrations should take place solemnly, in a unifying way, splendidly, deliciously, and merrily.

The “Celebrating Together” exhibition invites visitors to immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere of different eras through photographs and items from the collection of the Latvian National Museum of History. The exhibition showcases festivities in Latvia across different time periods. It highlights splendid festive attire and ornate decorations of venues and settings, the gathering of multi-generational families and people taking part in public celebrations, the preparation of delicious treats, the enjoyment of festive meals, the merry playfulness and musical side of the festivities, as well as the solemn patriotic and spiritual atmosphere. These features permeate and unite the whole spectrum of different festivities.

The diversity of festive experiences, along with their unchanging essence, underscores the importance of togetherness and the emotional value of shared moments – both in the past and today.

“Spectators of the festive fireworks display should note that the entire Daugava Riverbank has been divided into several sectors. Entry to these sectors is permitted only with special passes, which can be obtained for free today at any Riga Prefecture office […]. White and yellow passes will allow […] the access via Valdemāra Street; pink passes – via Lielā Smilšu, Lielā Pils and Katoļu streets; grey-brown passes – via Lielā Smilšu, Lielā Pils and Lielā Miesnieku streets; red cards – via Zirgu Street, 15 May Square and Bīskapu Street; while light green passes – via Zirgu and Lielā Jauniela streets or via Kaļķu and Svērtuves streets. […] Class 1 restaurants in Riga will be open until morning, while Class 2 restaurants will be open until 2 a.m. Cafés will also remain open past midnight.”

National Unity Day Programme. Jaunākās Ziņas. 14 May 1938

National holiday fireworks over the Daugava River in Riga. 15 May 1939. Photographer Videvuds Rozīte

Solemnly (...svinīgi)

After the foundation of the Latvian state, a tradition emerged of celebrating Independence Day on 18 November at public events, in workplaces and family gatherings. In interwar Latvia, this day was an integral part of the nation’s self-awareness; its symbolic power enabled the revival of this tradition during the Third Awakening – along with the celebration of Lāčplēsis Day on 11 November and other national holidays. Today, the restoration of the country’s independence in 1990 is marked every year by the 4 May celebration.

Until the 1940s, church traditions played a major role in public life, with the celebration days following the liturgical calendar of a given denomination. These holidays commemorated and honoured events and figures significant to the religious community. The strongest religious traditions in Latvia that have survived to this day are found in Latgale. Traditionally, markets were held near churches during significant religious holidays.

“The joint event organised by the New York Latvian Society, the Evangelical and Baptist congregations and the Latvian Club on 13 November in connection with the 19th anniversary of Latvia’s independence was very well attended, considering the local circumstances. Nearly 500 compatriots gathered, and the event took place in a patriotic atmosphere. Traditional costumes dazzled, and the Latvian language, music and dance rhythms filled the air.”

Latvian Language and Traditional Costumes in New York. Kurzemes Vārds. 7 December 1937

Friends playing music together. 1930s
“Floral Latvia” at the Freedom Monument in Riga. 4 May 2008. Photographer Roberts Kaniņš
Unveiling of the Freedom Monument in Riga. 18 November 1935
Latvian Army training ground near the Artillery Barracks on Krustabaznīcas Street, Riga. Second half of the 1930s
Anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Latvia in Talsi. 18 November 1925. Photographer Alfrēds Maskavičs
Celebratory banquet for the recipients of the Lāčplēsis Military Order at the Officers’ Club in Riga. 11 November 1935. Photographer Krišs Rake
Velta Dakša on her confirmation day in Saldus. 1 July 1943
Welcome ceremony for Pope John Paul II in the sacred square of Aglona Basilica. 9 September 1993. Photographer Leons Balodis
Religious procession during the St Peter’s Day service at the Roman Catholic Church of the Transfiguration of the Lord Jesus in Nīdermuiža, Jasmuiža Township, Daugavpils County. 29 June 1927. Photographer Artūrs Ullis

Objects in the showcase:

Scarf. “ADI’HAI knitwear”. Latvia. 2016
Shield in the colours of the Latvian flag. Melbourne, Australia. 1974
Commemorative badge of the Ministry of the Interior of the Republic of Latvia and the launch of the campaign marking the centenary of the Latvian state. During the campaign on 4 May 2017, 100 oak trees were planted across Latvia to commemorate the state’s centenary
Flag. 2018
Magnets. 2015–2018
Concert program for the 86th anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Latvia at the Latvian National Theatre. 18 November 2004
Pins. 2018

Unifyingly (...vienojoši)

The sense of unity and togetherness is most clearly evident when multiple generations come together for family celebrations and larger public events, where people meet in person and grow closer emotionally. This sense of unity can be reinforced by various symbolic and practical elements: festive pins, commemorative badges, as well as accessories and souvenirs that help preserve the festive atmosphere and serve as a reminder of the time spent together.

Historically, the period from spring to fall was most filled with various family, local or wider community festivities. The first spring celebration was Easter; in summer, various outdoor dances and cemetery festivals were a staple; and in fall, after the working bees of grain threshing and potato harvesting, came the most splendid family celebration – weddings. In the second half of the 19th century, local cultural and social associations such as firefighters, civic organisations and later also state and municipal institutions began to organise public celebrations. These gatherings attracted an increasing number of participants, often growing into regional or even nationwide events, bringing together large crowds not only in urban settings but also in the outdoors. Today, city festivals are a particularly relevant tradition, which strengthens the unity and sense of belonging within local communities.

“I will always remember 4 May 1990. […] My colleagues and I quickly reached the Supreme Soviet building. We couldn’t get close to the main entrance because of the crowds, but the sheer presence and the cheering for the votes “for” and booing the ones “against” was indescribable. Almost our entire team, along with the closest family members and friends, took part in the public rally on the Daugava Riverbank. I had never seen so many red-white-red flags in one place, and I don’t think I have since.”

Memoirs of Jānis Asaris, Head of the Cultural Items Circulation Department at the National Cultural Heritage Board

Latvians from Australia at the World Federation of Free Latvians Song Festival in Münster, West Germany. 31 July 1984
The 25th anniversary celebration of the Rūjiena Volunteer Firefighters Association. 20 July 1905. Photographer Eduards Kalcenavs
Midsummer revellers at Ulpi Farm in Rauna Township, Cēsis County. 20 June 1928. Photographer Pēteris Sērmūkslis
Open-air dance in Rudzēti, Daugavpils County. 7 August 1927. Photographer Jānis Bikše
Orthodox Christians during the social part of a cemetery festival at a cart with refreshments at the Cieļi Cemetery in Sērmūkši Township, Cēsis County. July 1928. Photographer Staņislavs Aloizijs Borbals
Fishermen’s festival. 1970s–1980s. Photographer Jānis Birze
“Veteran Race–Talsi 76” gathering organised by the Latvian Classic Car Club. 1976. Photographer Kārlis Kalseris
Placing Lāčplēsis Day candles on the 11 November Embankment along the historic outer wall of Riga Castle. 2024. Photographer Jānis Puķītis
Visitors of the folk applied arts fair at the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia in Riga. Late 1970s. Photographer Kārlis Kalseris
Rally on the 11 November Embankment in Riga following the adoption of the declaration “On the Restoration of Independence of the Republic of Latvia”. 4 May 1990. Photographer Anda Krauze

Objects in the showcase:

Fan item for the International Basketball Federation’s 2024 Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Riga. 7 July 2024
Official game ball for the knockout stage of the 2025 FIBA EUROBASKET European Championship in Riga
Fan noisemaker for the International Basketball Federation’s 2024 Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Riga. 7 July 2024
Fan noisemaker for the FIBA EUROBASKET European Championship in Riga. 27 August–14 September 2025
World Hockey Championship Bronze Medal. May 2023
Participant medal from the “Zaķis” course at the Tērvete Forest stage of the “Stirnu buks” trail running series of Latvia. 14 April 2018
Participant medal from the 27th Latvian Cyclists’ Unity Ride. 3 September 2017
“Nordea” Riga Half Marathon participant medal. 19 May 2013
“Rimi” Children’s Day participant medal, “Lattelecom” Riga Marathon. 19 May, 2018
“Rimi” Children’s Day participant number, “Lattelecom” Riga Marathon. 14 May, 2016

Splendidly (...krāšņi)

The splendour of celebrations has long been reflected in people’s appearance: festive attire worn for special occasions usually reflects symbolic meaning, the fashion trends of the era and cultural traditions. The chosen dress is complemented by accessories designed specifically for festive occasions: jewellery, headdresses, handbags embroidered with delicate glass beads, gloves, and other elegant details that create an expressive, luxurious and festive look. Such adornment not only highlights a person’s individuality but also signifies their affiliation with a specific community, social environment or tradition.

During celebrations, the venue or place of festivities is also decorated. Homes, yards, and even vehicles are lavishly adorned with flowers, garlands, colourful ribbons, flags, lighting and other festive elements in sync with the celebration theme as well as the style and aesthetic of the era. These decorations make the venue more beautiful and create a special atmosphere, ensuring an unforgettable and emotionally fulfilling festive experience.

“The White Hall was like a sea of the white chests of gentlemen, medals and the colourful evening gowns of ladies. […] At every table, the ladies gazed into their pocket mirrors, powdered their noses and put on lipstick, while the men fiddled with their white neckties and medals.”

Mariss Vētra, The Sixth Column. A Book of Memories. Brooklyn, 1957

Latvian philanthropist and collector Gaidis Graudiņš (centre) as the honorary chair of the Riflemen Society’s celebration in Soest with his spouse Ingrid Deiman and exiled Latvian guests. West Germany. 1983
Carriages with the newlyweds and their guests on their way to the groom’s home on the second day of the wedding in Vucani Village, Stirniena Township, Rēzekne County. 12 July 1926. Photographer Matīss Pluka
Midsummer revellers at a homestead in Pieviki, Ulmale Township, Aizpute County. Mid-1930s
Roofing ceremony at Ulpi Farm in Rauna Township, Cēsis County. 20 June 1928. Photographer Pēteris Sērmūkslis
Room decorated for Midsummer celebrations at Vecvagari Farm in Cēre Township, Talsi County. 26 June 1931. Photographer Jevgēnijs Eniņš
Newlyweds and wedding guests on their way to the church in Asūne Township, Daugavpils County. 1927. Photographer Valdemārs Oskars Mangulis
Carnival participants in costumes. Liepāja. 1920s–1930s. Photographer Leons Bečalis
Car decorated for a childhood festival in Skrunda. 1969
Midsummer revellers in a boat near Ķikuri Farm in Ļaudona Township, Madona County. 23 June 1928. Photographer Andrejs Punka
Graduation ceremony at Riga Secondary School No. 69. 1984

Objects in the showcase:

Shoes. Rūdolfs Eglītis’ Shoe Workshop. Riga. Early 1930s
Gloves. Latvia. 1930s
Beads. Czechoslovakia. 1970s
Top hat. Julius Popp, Hat and Fashion Retailer. Riga. 1930s
Bow tie. Latvia. Early 20th century
Cufflinks. Early 21st century

Deliciously (...garšīgi)

Preparing and enjoying a festive meal together brings people closer, allowing everyone to get to know one another better and build friendships. As a rule, festive meals feature dishes that we don’t eat every day. In traditional farmsteads period until the mid-19th century, these included white wheat bread, sausage, butter and cheese, as well as boiled fresh meat. Later, new products such as potatoes, sugar, coffee, spices, cucumbers and lettuce were introduced, and initially they were enjoyed only on festive occasions. Today, we can’t imagine a celebration table without a variety of potato dishes, delicious desserts, flatbreads, cookies and cakes.

On special occasions, the table setting also stands out. Precious tableware sets, special cutlery and glasses are taken out of the cupboards, along with ironed white tablecloths or tablecloths adorned with lace and patterns.

“When honoured guests arrived, they were served roasted meat, butter and a coarse meal loaf. At Easter – gingerbread made from beet or honey syrup and eggs; on Midsummer’s Eve – cheese and beer; on St Michael’s Day – pea and potato patties; on St Martin’s Day – goose, roasted chicken and beer; and at Christmas – bacon buns and barley porridge.”

Recorded during the 1928 Monuments Board ethnographic expedition at Gulbjusalas Farm in Kūdums Township, Cēsis County

Beer brewing at Kangari Farm in Sāviena Township, Madona County. 14 August 1928. Photographer Andrejs Punka
Birthday celebration of Aleksandrs Tīpains, founder of the State Electrotechnical Factory (VEF), with his family in Riga. Early 1970s
Beer brewing at night in Rudzēti, Daugavpils County. 21 June 1927. Photographer Jānis Bikše
Midsummer cheese-making at Ķikuri Farm in Ļaudona Township, Madona County. 22 June 1928. Photographer Andrejs Punka
Baking flatbread at Ķikuri Farm in Ļaudona Township, Madona County. 7 July 1928. Photographer Andrejs Punka
House party with a snacks table. Circa 1900. Photographer Oscar Emil Schmidt
House party on Gogoļa Street, Riga. 1972
Ķikuts family prepares to dye eggs for Easter celebrations in Limbaži. 4 April 2026. Photographer Ilze Zīberte-Ķikute
Garden Festival in Sloka. Circa 1900. Photographer Oscar Emil Schmidt
Culinary shop of the automated catering complex at the Riga manufacturing association “Radiotehnika”. February 1978. Photographer Viktors Ļisicins

Objects in the showcase:

Tableware set. M. S. Kuzņecovs Porcelain, Faience and Earthenware Factory, JSC. Riga. 1934–1940
Egg cup. M. S. Kuzņecovs Porcelain, Faience and Earthenware Factory, JSC. Riga. 1934–1940
Sweets tray. Latvia. 1920–1930
Easter eggs with traditional Latvian ornaments. USA. Second half of the 20th c.
Salt shaker. USSR. 1950s
Part of the “Marianna” coffee set. Riga Porcelain Factory. 1970–1976
Cup and saucer. J. C. Jessen Porcelain Factory. Riga. 1936–1939
Cup and saucer. M. S. Kuzņecovs Porcelain, Faience and Earthenware Factory, JSC. Riga. 1934–1940
Napkins. Latvia. 1920s

Merrily (...dzīvespriecīgi)

Music had an important place in celebrations. Almost in every family or community, there was someone who played a musical instrument. Townspeople played various wind instruments and the piano at their festivities; they sang choral songs and comic couplets; schlager music was also very popular. At family celebrations, folk instruments were often played: the violin, kokle, hammered dulcimer, zither, mandolin, diatonic button accordion, trideksnis and others. The songs and melodies were passed down from generation to generation.

Festivities have always included plenty of fun activities: games testing strength and agility, songs with witty lyrics, dancing until dawn and lively music-making. Home parties were filled with humour and wit, and people made toasts and told jokes, often with a political or sarcastic twist. In our times, it’s common to hire party hosts who ensure a lively atmosphere.

“The wedding is lively. Old traditions intertwine with more modern ones. […] Bandits in face masks steal the bride – unexpectedly, in broad daylight. […] A tall maiden chats up Miervaldis and leads the groom to the barn. […] Mummy’s favourite polonaise is what we call the “Toddling Polka”. […] The first dancer, both index fingers raised, bows to someone, then turns and invites the next person the same way. […] Soon everyone is toddling in a long line through the rooms or even the courtyard. […] Mummy leads everyone to the window and says: “Climb right through!” […] At first, everything goes smoothly, but then Miervaldis’ friend Didriķis Ohaks gets stuck. […] His head, arms and knees are on the outside, his shoulders and buttocks on the inside – he’s going nowhere.”

Account of the wedding of Miervaldis and Lilija Biruta Bušs at Jozups Farm in Vandzene Township, Talsi County, on 8 July 1944. Vīta Lagzdiņa, The Bušs Family of Foresters. Riga, 2001

Wedding guests at a homestead in Pieviki, Ulmale Township, Aizpute County. 1920s–1930s
Leisurely moment with friends in Pārdaugava, Riga. Circa 1900. Photographer Oscar Emil Schmidt
Easter swings in Vietalva Township, Cēsis County. First half of the 20th century. Photographer Indriķis Purgals
Musicians during the filming of the ethnographic feature film “Latvian Wedding in Nīca” at Tupeši Farm in Nīca Township, Liepāja County. June 1931. Photographer Matīss Pluka
The 18 November celebrations in the vaulted cellars of Riga Castle. 2024. Photographer Poļina Koroļova
Wedding guests at Kaplūži Farm in Saldus Township, Kuldīga County. 1924. Photographer Matīss Pluka
New Year’s celebration at the Specialised Track and Field School of the Daugava Sports Complex. Riga. 1969

Objects in the showcase:

Record “I Planted a Bird-Cherry”. “Stella Koncert Rekord”, Germany. 1910–1914
Record “Emīls Dārziņš. You’re Still Picking Roses”. H. Rudzītis’ “Bellaccord Electro” factory, Riga. 1930s
Record “Folk Waltz”. “Parlophon”, Germany. 1920s–1930s
Record “The Beatles. A Hard Day’s Night.” Riga Record Factory of the All-Union company “Melodija”. 1986
Record “Melody Relay 2”. Riga Record Factory of the All-Union Company “Melodija”. 1983
Record “Songs by Raimonds Pauls”. Riga Record Factory of the All-Union Company “Melodija”. 1970