Christmas was a difficult and controversial time during the First World War. The fronts were on the move and soldiers were on long front lines, often far from family and home. However, there were occasions during the First World War when the opposing sides showed mutual respect and even peace in the run-up to Christmas. The most famous example is the ‘Christmas Truce’ in 1914, when a few German and French soldiers in the countryside stopped the war to celebrate Christmas by giving presents and even playing football. It was a brief and emotional moment that allowed some soldiers to relax for a moment and express their humanity in the midst of a devastating war. However, the brutal realities of the First World War continued after that moment, and hostilities resumed.
From 20 December this year, the First World War Museum in Medumi will be hosting the newly created exhibition “Christmas in the Trenches” by Juris Stikāns. This exhibition will be made up mostly of objects found in the Medumi area, suggesting that despite the war, soldiers celebrated Christmas here. Museum guide Miropija Petkune will talk about the traditions that were preserved and introduced while living in the trenches. Visitors will have the opportunity to watch a moving video about the famous Christmas Truce of 1914
The museum has a war post “office”, so everyone will have the opportunity to send a postcard from the front line. You can order the porridge made in the military field by prior arrangement and experience being a soldier while enjoying a “festive feast” in the trenches.
Museum events of this kind allow you to get closer to the historical context and experience the reality of wartime, recalling important events and people’s experiences at the time, as well as spending time with your family or friends.
The collection of Juris Stikāns is on display until 20 January 2024 at the First World War Museum in Medumi, located at Alejas iela 20, Medumi, Augšdaugava County
Opening hours (W., T., F., S. 12.00-17.00)
Ticket price: 3.50 EUR for adults, 1.40 EUR for children, seniors and persons with special needs
Tel. +371 26274123
