Ligo (Janow Day)

Ligo is a whole philosophy with a system of sacred rituals.The ancient Latvian holiday of the summer solstice, the meaning of which is to honor the god of fertility Janis. It is traditionally celebrated on the night of June 23-24. Ligo is a whole philosophy, with a system of sacred rituals, which, alas, are almost lost.

On the Yanov day, herbs are collected, it was believed that on this day all vegetation acquired healing properties, weave wreaths of oak leaves and decorate themselves, animals, their home with them. First of all, these are the names of Janisov, Jan and Liga (League is a female name). If the company does not have one with a similar name, it is “assigned” and it becomes the center of attention. The Ligo Festival is divided into three decades:

Meeting (call/call) Ligo

Come, come, come.
With us to ling,
Don't come to us in Ligo.
We're not going to see you at all.

Help me climb the rock,
I'm a little singer.
Let my voice fly.
I want the sisters to hear.

The Ligo celebration itself

Once a year, Janis comes.
Visit your children:
What you eat with what you drink,
What is sown in the field;

You guys are packing, Jan's kids,
High on the hill,
To hear our songs
In the farthest corner.

The dances had a magical meaning – they were supposed to contribute to the fertility of fields and domestic animals.

And the Ligo wires, which last until Peteris Day on June 29.

On the hills, according to an ancient custom, bonfires were burned, symbolizing the victory of the sun. Around the fires they sang and danced. The dances had a magical meaning - they were supposed to contribute to the fertility of fields and domestic animals. There was another meaning, love. Couples holding hands jumped over fires to test the power of their love. It was believed that if in the jump the couple unhooked their hands, their relationship will not last long. Towards the night they went to the river and the girls let their wreaths. The one whose wreath has not sunk into the water will become a bride in the autumn.

At midnight, young people go to the forest to look for a flowering fern, a symbol of happiness. Only then can you experience the magic and mystery of the shortest night of the year.

The ritual treat is Janov cumin cheese and barley beer. Especially popular beer Aldaris "Pilzenes", "Luksus", "Gaišais", Lāčplēša "Dzintara alus" and Tērvetes alus. And God forbid you to give up the mug, good-natured poured by the owner! It's hurtful. However, over time, changes have been introduced to the festive Latvian menu - barbecue is now popular.
In Latvia, these days are official holidays and have become one of the brightest holidays celebrated by the republic.