Perceptions and Attitudes Towards Festivities and their Celebration During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Case Study in the Latvian Context

Abstract

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges. Comparing pre-pandemic and pandemic experiences led to the re-evaluation of the role of festivities and their associated traditions. Through semi-structured interviews, people’s perceptions of festivities during the two-year-long period of repetitive social restrictions were investigated in Latvia (Latgale region). Data analysis revealed that the quality of festivities related to otherworldliness decreased. Celebration as a powerful practice for developing a sense of togetherness and experiencing collective joy was commonly acknowledged. Festivities were primarily perceived as a tool of socialization and collective identification, as well as an opportunity for entertainment and creative expression.

Keywords

• festive culture
• traditions
• re-evaluation
• pandemic experience
• latvia (latgale region)