Winter in Baltic States

Spending a winter in Baltic countries is nothing less than a boon. Visiting these countries during December would be a great fun. Every European country celebrates Christmas in different unique way. Latvia’s Christmas market is something a tourist should never miss. Shopping malls, streets and every nook and corner of Latvia is decorated like heaven. Winter Solstice celebration in Latvia has now become a part of Christmas celebrations. Dragging out the Yule log and Christmas tree decoration are the traditionally here. Easter egg decoration is also of great interest in Latvia. Christmas celebration in Lithuania starts with a countdown. People gather in Vilnius, the capital city of Lithuania and celebrate the eve. Pubs, bars and hotels organize special events and are almost found overflowing during this time. Ship race is conducted as a part of Klaipėda Sea Festival. Many music and sports festivals are held in Lithuania. Kaziuko mugė a fair dedicated to folk arts and crafts is held here every year.

img credit : zsoolt

Usgavenes Festival is one of the traditional festivals held here on which customary food, music and dance are vital part of it. Now coming to Estonia, it’s the Black Nights Film Festival that attracts many tourists to the country. Birgitta Festival, Beach Party Festival and Estonia Song and Dance Celebration are the major music festivals held here. Many tourists visit Baltic countries mainly to witness these musical days. Apart from the traditional Christian festivals few other new festivals are celebrated in Russia. The Jewel of Russia Festival is one among those new arrivals. Scarlet Sails is celebrated to mark the end of school year. It’s Poland our next destination.

Silent Film Festival, Wawel Evenings and Fat Thursday Festival are the exclusive festivals celebrated in Poland. The one now left is Scandinavia. Boxing Day is the notable event held here. Hanukkah the most famous Jewish celebration held here. Though the type of festivals are similar in Baltic countries the way of celebration is exclusive everywhere. Apart from these entertainments there are a number of winter activities available in common in all these countries. Skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, dog sledding, ice skating are the best way to spend your leisure time. To put simply, the Baltic countries are heaven for art and music lovers throughout the world.

photocredits: uniquehotelsgroup