Latvian School Youth Song and Dance Festival kicks off

XI Latvian School Youth Song and Dance Festival kicks off in Riga

The XI School Youth Song and Dance Festival takes place in Riga from July 6 to 12. It is one not only of the largest festivals in Latvia, but also the most significant and oldest. It is held once every five years.

This year it is expected that 37,400 young participants will take place from all over the country and abroad, including groups from worldwide Latvian diaspora.

Festival’s website is called “Dzied un dejo” (Sing and dance), which is the essence and the motto of the event. Check it out at dziedundejo.lv.

A major program with more than fifty different activities will provide ample entertainment for one week, starting on Sunday, July 5 with a concert at St. Peter’s Church.

The program includes time-tested traditions, such as the Festival Procession, the large-scale Latvian folk dance performance at Daugava Stadium, the Grand Finale Concert at Mezaparks Stage, brass bands live, folklore concerts, Celebration in Vermanes Garden Park, as well as the Opening Event on the 11th November Embankment, and a concert devoted to sacred music.

The program also includes several firsts — for the first time ever, a large-scale modern dance production is in the works, and a special concert with spotlight on the kokle (traditional Latvian string instrument).

Ticket prices to the XI School Youth Song and Dance Festival range from €2 to €20. Get yours on Biļešu Paradīze.

Image credit: Dzied un dejo.