November in Latvia is a special month – it is a time when nature becomes calm and quiet, while people’s hearts fill with light and a sense of belonging. During this period, the most significant national holidays are celebrated, reminding us of the nation’s perseverance and love for freedom. It is a time of liberty, courage, and unity, when we honor those who, through their determination and faith in the future, fought for our country. November is a patriotic month because it marks the beginning of Latvia’s story of strength and unity.

November 11 – Lāčplēsis Day

Lāčplēsis Day is celebrated in honor of the victory of the independent Latvian army over the West Volunteer Army, also known as Bermont’s troops, on November 11, 1919. The name of the day is associated with the Order of Lāčplēsis – the highest military award granted for heroism in Latvia’s freedom battles.

On Lāčplēsis Day, several commemorative and celebratory events take place across the country:

• Military parade of the National Armed Forces in Riga – symbolizes the security and independence of the state;
• Lighting candles on Riga’s embankment and at the Brothers’ Cemetery in memory of Latvia’s defenders;
• Placing candles in windows to honor the fallen;
• Wearing a ribbon in the colors of the national flag;
• Torchlight procession – honoring brave and selfless fighters for Latvia’s freedom. Traditionally, the procession goes through the city to mark Lāčplēsis Day.

November 18 – Proclamation Day of the Republic of Latvia

This year marks the 107th anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Latvia. The acquisition and restoration of Latvia’s independence confirm that freedom is the highest of our values. November 18 is celebrated as Latvia’s birthday – the day in 1918 when Latvia’s independence was declared, and the Latvian People’s Council announced in the building of today’s National Theatre that sovereign power in Latvia belongs to the Latvian people, proclaiming Latvia as an independent, democratic republic.

Traditions to preserve memory and celebrate the national holiday include:

• Ceremonial laying of flowers at the Freedom Monument;
• Wearing ribbons in the colors of the Latvian flag;
• Festive concerts and cultural events;
• Address by the President of Latvia.

How to get involved?

• Follow your municipality’s website to learn about holiday events in your city or nearby;
• Participate in moments of silence or light a candle – a gesture of respect highly appreciated by locals;
• Pin a small flag or ribbon to your jacket – a symbolic but heartfelt gesture showing your connection to the festive spirit;
• Don’t hesitate to join in – Latvians may seem reserved, but during holidays, the sense of unity brings everyone together.

How do Latvian families celebrate national holidays?

Families often celebrate in a calm and warm atmosphere. Many raise the Latvian flag at home, watch festive concerts on TV, or listen to the President’s address together. Shared meals have special meaning – traditional dishes symbolizing Latvian values and coziness are served. For children, these holidays are an opportunity to learn more about the country’s history as parents and grandparents share memories and stories. It is a day when families not only celebrate but also strengthen their connection to their roots and pass on the sense of belonging to Latvia.

During the holiday week, people often wear a small Latvian flag or a red-white-red ribbon on their clothing. It is a simple yet meaningful way to show respect and belonging to the country.

Strengthen your knowledge of the national language with patriotic phrases:

• Tēvzeme – Homeland;
• Saules mūžu Latvijai -Long live Latvia;
• Brīvība ir mūsu vērtība – Freedom is our value;
• Latvijas himna -Latvian anthem.

November reminds us how important it is to protect and honor the freedom fought for by our ancestors. This is a time when each of us can be part of the shared festive spirit, regardless of age, place of residence, or occupation.

We invite everyone to participate in national holiday events, light a candle, wear a flag ribbon, attend concerts, processions, and commemorations. Through our presence and involvement, we strengthen the sense of belonging, honor history, and shape a future where freedom, unity, and respect are our common values.

Services of the Integration and Inclusion Agency are provided by the Society Integration Foundation within the framework of the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund’s project (Agreement No. PMIF/13.1./2022/1/01). The funding has been allocated by the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund (75%) and Latvian State budget (25%).