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Zvaigznes Diena

In ancient Latvia, Zvaigznes ("day of stars") was a festival held on January 6.

Three pointed apple cakes were eaten. If a dog was heard barking, the direction was said to also be that person's future spouse. Weaving and wood-cutting was bad luck. A sunny enough day (warmed up the horse's backs} signified a year without war.

After Christianization, Zvaigznes Diena became Tris Kunga Diena ("three king's day")

The three kings refer to Kasparu[?], Melchioru[?] and Belceru[?]. The initiats "KMB" were carved on doors so that they would bless the house. Gypsies painted six-cornered stars on their foreheads. A clear night signifed a good season.

Alternative: Paganu Svetdienu ("holy day of pagans")



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