Easter in Latvia is a time of renewal, celebration, and vibrant traditions. One of the most cherished customs during this season is the art of egg coloring, which has been passed down through generations. If you’re visiting Riga during Easter and staying at Garden Apartments, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to explore this beautiful tradition firsthand. Let’s dive into some of the most popular and natural ways Latvians decorate their Easter eggs.
Source: Photo by Antoni Shkraba: https://www.pexels.com/photo/eggs-on-a-tray-6679630/
1. Natural Dyeing with Onion Skins (shades of red)
One of the most popular and traditional methods in Latvia is dyeing eggs with onion skins. This method creates rich shades of brown, orange, and red. To achieve this effect:
Collect a generous amount of onion skins (both yellow and red onions can be used for different hues). Wrap the eggs in the skins and secure them with a piece of cloth or cheesecloth.
Boil the eggs in water with a splash of vinegar for about 15-20 minutes. Let them cool and remove the wrappings to reveal beautifully marbled eggs.
Source: Photo by Polina : https://www.pexels.com/photo/food-holiday-love-art-6620119/
2. Leaf and Flower Imprint Technique
Latvians love incorporating nature into their Easter traditions. The leaf and flower imprint method results in stunning, intricate patterns on the eggs. Place a small leaf or flower on a raw egg and wrap it tightly with a piece of thin fabric, like pantyhose or cheesecloth. Boil the wrapped egg in a natural dye solution (onion skins, beetroot, or red cabbage work well).
After cooling, remove the fabric and leaf to reveal the delicate imprint.
Source: Photo by Lukas: https://www.pexels.com/photo/brown-almonds-518528/
3. Beetroot and Red Cabbage Dye (blue / purple to pink colors)
For those who prefer vibrant, natural colors, beetroot and red cabbage can create striking hues: Chop red cabbage for shades of blue and beetroot for pink or deep red tones.
Boil the eggs in the vegetable water with a splash of vinegar for about 30 minutes.
For deeper colors, let the eggs sit in the dye overnight.
Source: Photo by Polina ⠀: https://www.pexels.com/photo/food-holiday-art-blue-6619908/
4. Using Birch Leaves and Grass for Golden Hues
Birch leaves and fresh grass can be used to achieve a soft golden color.
Boil birch leaves in water and add eggs to the solution.
Simmer for about 20 minutes for a gentle golden or yellowish tint.
Source: Photo by Christina & Peter: https://www.pexels.com/photo/delicate-easter-egg-hanging-on-spring-twig-31280785/
5. Wax-Resist Method
Though less common in Latvia than in neighboring countries, some people still practice the wax-resist technique:
Heat beeswax or candle wax and use a fine-tipped tool to draw patterns on the egg.
Dip the egg into a natural dye, and then gently remove the wax to reveal intricate designs.
Source: Photo by ROMAN ODINTSOV: https://www.pexels.com/photo/eggs-and-wax-candle-6980100/
6. Use turmeric powder for bright yellow tone
Boil the eggs in the turmeric water (add 4-5 spoons of turmeric) with a splash of vinegar for about 30 minutes.
For deeper colors, let the eggs sit in the dye overnight.
Source: Photo by Mikhail Nilov: https://www.pexels.com/photo/photograph-of-a-plate-with-eggs-and-a-yellow-flower-6957674/
Celebrate Easter in Riga at Garden Apartments
Easter in Latvia is a magical time filled with folklore, feasts, and beautiful customs. If you’re staying at Garden Apartments, you can enjoy the festive atmosphere of Riga and even try some of these egg-coloring methods yourself! Whether you’re exploring the city’s Easter markets or joining in on local celebrations, this is a perfect way to experience Latvia’s rich traditions.
Looking for a cozy place to stay during your Easter getaway? Book your stay at Garden Apartments and immerse yourself in the beauty of Latvian Easter traditions!
