The XIII Latvian School Youth Song and Dance Festival wrapped up on July 13, 2025, with a grand parade of 38,000 participants and the finale concert called “Dawns-Here” at Mežaparks Great Stage.
Held from July 5 to 13, the event brought together thousands of young singers, dancers, musicians, and artists from Latvia and the diaspora. It’s the country’s largest youth cultural gathering, recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Over 30 events unfolded across venues like Daugava Stadium, Arena Riga, and Vērmane Garden. Highlights included contemporary dance shows, kokle concerts, and wind band performances.
The closing day featured a parade starting at Freedom Square, marching past the Freedom Monument. Madona Region led, honoring the 1866 origins of Latvia’s first children’s singing festival.
“Dawns-Here” blended tradition and modernity, with choirs, dance groups, orchestras, and soloists. Chief conductors included Kaspars Ādamsons and Māris Sirmais.
Inga Vasiļjeva, head of the organizing group, said: “We appreciate each participant who prepared for the festival. Thank you to teachers and parents for ensuring we celebrate tunefully and joyfully.”
The festival promoted sustainability through the Change (K)now project, testing reusable cups. It aimed to pass traditions to new generations.
Organized by the State Education Content Centre under the Ministry of Education and Science, with support from Swedbank. The event reinforces Latvian identity and cultural pride.
