#velines

All Saints day is a Christian version of Vėlinės. During both of these days families visit their loved ones' graves, lighting candles in remembrance of those not with us. It's very common to start visiting cemeteries on the 1st even if one isn't Christian due to the amount of travel that might have to be done or just the simple fact that Vėlinės and All Saints day basically melts into one "two day period" for many, including myself.

Vėlinės (or Ilgės) on November 2nd is a pagan Lithuanian holiday focused on respecting the souls of those who come to visit. Here are some traditions that are pictured in the photos:

Importance of fire: though a recent addition, fire is thought to attract spirits, hence the custom of a bonfire in the graveyard, later exchanged for lighting candles.

Food: it was once a must to eat dark colored food like bread and beer, as well as tell scary stories afterwards. After dinner, the leftovers would either stay on the table or be brought to the grave in a tradition which is almost forgotten in Lithuania currently.

Graveyard care: today the most prominent tradition is taking care of the graves that aren't visited. From weeding out to just lighting a candle, an emphasis is put on respecting everyone's resting place.