Funerals in Latvian folk traditions have always been one of the three greatest honors in a person’s life—an event treated with the utmost respect and dignity.
Ancient Latvians viewed death as a natural process, a part of the world's cycle. They did not fear death, as it was seen as a transition from life in this world to life in the afterlife.
What is a Funeral Repast?
Funeral traditions vary depending on religious denominations or cultural customs, but in general, funerals and farewell meals are organized similarly in Latvia, whether for Lutherans, Catholics, Jews, or Orthodox. All these denominations include the tradition of a funeral repast as part of the ceremony.
Latvians, Russians, Poles, Jews, and Roma alike hold funeral meals, with the main purpose being to pay the final respects to the deceased. During the meal, it is customary to speak about the deceased, remember their good deeds and life events, and share memories.
The funeral repast is the last gathering where memories of the deceased are shared, in whose honor this event is organized. It takes place immediately after the burial at the cemetery or after the farewell ceremony before cremation. Sometimes a memorial meal is held 40 days after the death or a year later, bringing together relatives and friends to honor the deceased.
How to Set the Table for Funeral Repast?
The table is usually covered with a white tablecloth, white candles are lit, and the table may be decorated with spruce branches. Nowadays, special funeral floral arrangements are often used to decorate both the table and the venue. In memory of the deceased, utensils are placed at the end of the table—knife and fork are set parallel to the edge of the table on an empty plate, with a candle lit beside it. The deceased’s chair is adorned with spruce branches wrapped with a mourning ribbon.
As guests arrive for the funeral repast, soft lyrical or classical music is played, often with religious content. A photo of the deceased, with a mourning ribbon and flowers, is typically placed on a separate table.
An essential part of a funeral repast, in addition to the food, is sweet wine, which is traditionally offered to guests before the funeral meal. This symbolizes pleasant memories, helping to ease the bitterness of loss and to wish the deceased that the earth may rest lightly upon them. The table is usually set with various appetizers and cold dishes. The meal starts with broth and a pastry, followed by a main course, and finishes with dessert—usually cake and coffee or tea. Traditionally, a funeral meal lasts about 3 hours, though it can be shorter or longer.
A buffet-style table is typically not set at traditional funerals, but this format is acceptable for funeral meals. In a more relaxed atmosphere, it is nice to gather and share memories, paying tribute to the deceased. This, too, is a form of honor and respect for the departed.
If a traditional funeral table is not arranged, a simpler farewell meal can be held at the cemetery, where, immediately after the burial, the deceased is remembered with a glass of sweet wine and light snacks, pastries, or cake.
How to Order a Funeral Meal?
One section of our portal is dedicated to funeral meal offerings—you can order a funeral meal remotely from anywhere in Latvia or abroad. At Memorial Services, you can choose from various funeral meal options, menus for takeaway, or delivery.
Check out the funeral meal table arrangements in the catalog
