Koleda Winter Solstice Festival

Photo courtesy of the Oregon Latvian Society

Follow in the footsteps of ancient winter traditions at Koleda, a Slavic winter solstice festival.

The Oregon Latvian Society is hosting a day of revel, feasting, dressing up as animals and magical creatures, singing carols, dancing and telling fortunes for the whole community.

On Sunday, January 8, visit the Latvian Community Center to partake in unique Slavic traditions from Ukraine, Belarus and Russia.

Here is the list of activities:

Entertainment by Skomorokhs and mummers.
Welcoming ceremony.
Traditional foods.
Traditional craft vendors.
Traditional craft workshops, including making Koleda stars, block printing, angel Christmas tree ornaments and animal masks.
Songs, carols and dancing from Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia.
Musical performance by renowned Belarusian folk artist Siarhei Douhushau.

Traditional clothes, animal costumes, and masks are encouraged to add to the festive atmosphere.

There will be a translator and print-out program available for English-speaking audience.

Most of the program will be held indoors, but be sure to bring warm clothing so you can also enjoy outdoor activities.

Tickets are $25. Kids 5 and under attend for free. The event is taking place is from 12:30 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, January 8.

It takes place at Oregon Latvian Community Center, 5500 SW Dosch Rd. in Portland. For more information and to buy tickets, visit the event page.

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