Learning a new language becomes much more engaging when you connect it with culture. Latvia and Norway, both rich in traditions, offer unique festivals that provide perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the language while experiencing local customs. Let’s explore some of these celebrations and how they can help you learn Latvian and Norwegian naturally.

Latvia: Midsummer (Jāņi) – the magic of the shortest night

One of Latvia’s most beloved festivals is Jāņi, celebrated on June 23-24. This ancient solstice festival involves:

• singing folk songs (dainas) – great for learning poetic Latvian
• decorating homes with oak leaves and flowers (zāļu vainagi)
• jumping over bonfires for luck (ugunskurs)

Language tip: Listen to traditional Jāņi songs and try singing along. Words like “līgo” (to sway, a key refrain in songs) and “saulīte” (little sun) will stick in your memory through repetition.

Norway: Syttende Mai – a national celebration

Norway’s Constitution Day (May 17) is a vibrant display of patriotism:

• parades with flags (flagget) and traditional costumes (bunad)
• children’s processions singing national songs
• ice cream and hot dogs (pølse) as festive treats

Language tip: Watch Norwegian news coverage of Syttende Mai to hear phrases like “Gratulerer med dagen!” (Happy Constitution Day!) and “Hurra!” (Hooray!).

Latvia: Meteņi – the winter farewell

Held in February, Meteņi is a lively pre-Lent festival where people used to:

• visit their neighbours singing and dancing in groups for good harvest luck
• eat flatbreads (plāceņi)
• burn a straw figure to symbolize winter’s end

Language tip: Practice winter-related vocabulary like “sniegs” (snow) and “silti” (warmly) while joining in the festivities.

Norway: Sankthans – A Nordic Midsummer

Norwegians celebrate St. John’s Eve (June 23) with:

• bonfires (bål)
• singing and dancing
• folklore about witches and magic

Language tip: Learn simple phrases like “God Sankthans!” (Happy St. John’s Eve!) and “flamme” (flame) to engage with locals.