Here is Rhonda getting ready to celebrate Jani. Celebrated throughout Latvia, Jani is the annual celebration of the Summer Solstice which marks the longest day of the year and is celebrated on Midsummer's Day. It is an ancient practice which dates back to pre-Christian times and has many rituals that are closely associated with nature and the hope for a good harvest in the autumn. It is a time to be with friends, family and loved ones and is usually celebrated with a big meal during the day. At this time of year, it is traditional for Latvian's to go into the forests to collect traditional jani-herbs which are thought to have special healing powers. One of the most symbolic herbs is the mythical blooming fern which is said to only flower on this day and is believed to bring the finder good luck, riches and love. The day is a national holiday in Latvia, as is Midsummer's Eve which is known as Ligo Diena or "grass day" Everyone is to wear a hat of leaves and flowers and say goodbye to winter and hello to summer. They also stay up all night and drink.
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