Līgo, Latvia’s summer solstice celebration, is a night of bonfires, singing, and enough beer to float a small boat. If you want to join the festivities without sounding like a confused tourist, you’ll need the right phrases. Here’s how to talk like a Latvian when the midsummer madness hits.
The Basics: Greetings and Cheers
- Līgo! – The universal shout for the holiday. Yell it at strangers, friends, or cows. Everyone’s fair game.
- Priecīgu Līgo! – “Happy Līgo!” The polite version, for when you’re not quite drunk enough to just scream “Līgo!” yet.
- Priekā! – “Cheers!” You’ll say this a lot. Latvians take their beer seriously, especially during Līgo.
Songs and Chants (Because You Will Sing)
Līgo isn’t just drinking - it’s singing. Loudly. Often off-key. Here’s what you’ll hear (and should try to join in on):
Pūt, vējiņi!
/puːt, veːjiɲi/“Blow, Little Wind!”
A traditional folk song sung during Līgo. If you hear a crowd belting this out, it’s your cue to join in, even if you’re mumbling half the words.
Līgo, līgo!
/liːɡo, liːɡo/The chorus of many Līgo songs. Easy to remember, impossible to escape once the singing starts.
Food and Drink (The Important Part)
Līgo food is hearty, cheesy, and best enjoyed with a cold beer. Here’s how to ask for it:
- Vai varu dabūt alu? – “Can I get a beer?” A survival phrase.
- Man patīk Jāņu siers. – “I like Jāņu cheese.” This caraway-seed-infused cheese is a Līgo staple. Lie if you have to.
- Vēl vienu, lūdzu! – “One more, please!” For when the first beer disappears too quickly.
Survival Phrases (For When Things Get Wild)
Līgo parties can go until sunrise. Here’s how to navigate the chaos:
- Kur ir tualete? – “Where is the toilet?” Essential after several beers.
- Vai tu gribi dejot? – “Do you want to dance?” Traditional folk dancing is common, even if you have no idea what you’re doing.
- Es meklēju savus draugus. – “I’m looking for my friends.” Useful when you’ve lost your group in the crowd (or the forest).
Pro Tip: Learn the Prefixes
Latvian prefixes can change the meaning of words dramatically. If you want to sound like a pro, check out our guide on how to use Latvian prefixes and suffixes.
Final note: Don’t overthink it. Līgo is about joy, noise, and a little bit of chaos. If you mess up a phrase, just raise your glass and yell “Priekā!” - no one will care.
