The Summer Solstice is considered Latvia’s most distinctive and widely celebrated holiday, rooted in ancient pagan traditions. Known as Līgo or Jāņi, the festival marks the peak of summer and is observed across the country with music, rituals and overnight gatherings.
What Is Jāņi and the Summer Solstice Celebration?
Jāņi marks the Summer Solstice - the time of year when daylight is at its longest and night is shortest - and is deeply rooted in Latvia’s ancient nature-based beliefs. Traditionally celebrated on the night of 23–24 June, it honours fertility, light and the power of the sun. People wear wreaths made of flowers and oak leaves, sing special midsummer songs, jump over bonfires for luck and health, and stay awake until sunrise. The festival blends pagan rituals, folk music and rural customs, making it one of the most atmospheric and meaningful times to visit Latvia.
Ancient beliefs and midsummer magic
The summers solstice is surrounded by a sense of mystery in the Latvian folklore. According to tradition, people search for the legendary blooming fern, wash their faces in morning dew for good health, and gather herbs believed to hold special powers on this night.
The celebration dates back centuries to times when Europeans actively practiced the cult of the Sun and honoured the natural cycle of the seasons, making midsummer one of the most symbolic moments of the year.
Bonfires, nature and the longest night
Central to the festivities are large bonfires, which symbolise light, protection and harmony between nature and people. Jāņi celebrates the longest day and shortest night of the year and is closely linked to the countryside - many leave the city to spend the night outdoors, enjoying beer, singing traditional songs and searching for the mythical fern blossom.
Celebrating across the country
Across Latvia’s regions and towns, people make flower wreaths, gather around fires, play games, observe traditional rituals and sing folk songs until sunrise. Joining local folk musicians and dance groups is one of the best ways for visitors to experience the spirit of midsummer and create unforgettable memories.
Celebrate midsummer in Riga
Experience midsummer magic in Riga, where public parks and squares host concerts, folk dancing, craft fairs and festive light displays inspired by traditional bonfires. These organised city events give visitors an easy way to join the celebrations without leaving the capital, with performances by folk groups offering chances to sing and dance along.
It’s a lively and welcoming way to take part in Latvia’s biggest summer festival and enjoy the atmosphere of the bright northern night without leaving the city.
Event information
Details about specific midsummer celebrations in Riga are usually announced in May, when full programmes and locations for public festivities become available.
