Riga extends invitation to Midsummer celebrations

Take note – story published 8 years ago

Riga City Council has revealed details of the free celebrations that will be taking place throughout the city to mark the midsummer festival - the uniquely Latvian celebration known as Jani. 

As is usually the case, the revels will center on the 11 November Embankment and Dzegužkalns areas of the city, with legendary Latvian singer-songwriter Raimonds Pauls the headline act at the waterfront event.

Also present will be traditional Latvian choirs and dancers, and numerous other acts performing in the show dedicated to the fun and feisty work of beloved late Soviet-era comedian, actor and singer Edgars Liepiņš.

The midsummer event will begin at 20:00 with polyphonic choral singing, followed by some of Pauls' greatest hits.

At. 23:00 'the Maestro' himself (as he is universally referred in Latvia) has organized a special gift - a new song program titled "Today or never," which will feature twelve as-yet unreleased, compositions.

In line with Latvian tradition, the event will remain open throughout the short Baltic night with bonfires lit until Ligo eve turns into Jani day with the first rays of the rising sun.

So if you are in the Latvian capital on June 23-24, don;t miss the chance to take part in this unique celebration!

Full details of the program are available in Latvian at Riga City Council's culture website here.

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