Lāčplēsis Day

Today, 11th of November, is Lāčplēsis Day in Latvia. It is a day of remembering fallen fighters for Latvian freedom. Day originates back to 11th of November 1919, when an important fight was won.

"The period between the Proclamation of the Independent Republic of Latvia on 18 November 1918 and 11 November 1919 was one of the most complicated periods in Latvia's history as battles were still raging for the independence of the newly-born country. Only in 1919 it became clear that Latvia is truly independent when the Russian Army was driven from Riga during the Latvian War of Independence.

The day was named after the Latvian epic hero Lāčplēsis who had bear ears and strength; he has become a symbol of heroism and devotion to the state."

from LiveRiga site about 11th of November

This day is widely celebrated, with lantern-parades and putting candles out, and with various events all over Latvia.

Remembering important patriotic days like this is important to me and our family. And it is important to teach them to children, talk about these things and involve them in traditions.

A week later - on 18th of November - is Latvian Independence Day. Maybe in the future we could take a vacation in Latvia for this week, to take part in events happening there. I believe it would create some wonderful and powerful memories for the children.

We celebrate both Latvian and Estonian national celebrations, and they both are equally important in our family.

But today we are at home.. Being cute, and still teething :)