Children in Latvia dress as Death, witches, spiders and devils for Halloween

Latvia, like many other countries, is marking Halloween, also known as the eve of All Saints' Day, today, 31 October. The holiday becomes more popular every year, and children in particular have embraced it. On this day they dress up in various costumes, including Death, a witch, a spider and a little devil.

The season of the dead in Latvian culture

In Latvian tradition, the dark autumn period is the time of the departed, when people remember and honour their deceased ancestors. Halloween joins this season as a newer custom, but its popularity is rising.

A children's tradition

For children, the essence of Halloween is the chance to step into a character. Once in costume, they go to their neighbours to ask for sweets. As a result, the day in Latvia is largely associated with children's play and dressing up, not only with the dark season and remembrance.