On Saturday, January 18, we experienced a spectacular and inspiring series of events marking the launch of Latvia’s Cultural Capital Year program. Events took place throughout the Cēsis region, offering a diverse program for both locals and visitors.
The opening day began with the theatrical Family Morning “The Brave Čieps” at the Cēsis Central Library, bringing families together for a fun and educational event.
At the same time, the Cēsis Exhibition Hall hosted the introductory event of Vidzeme Artists’ Days, titled “Climate Check,” attracting both artists and cultural professionals.
At the “Velves” exhibition hall of the Jaunpiebalga Culture Center, the exhibition “LIGHT – from which even the sun and stars draw their strength” had already been opened, followed by an educational game in the evening, “Hidden Knowledge,” about the Cēsis region. Meanwhile, the “Ģikši Dance Night” at the Amata Culture Center continued throughout the night, featuring musicians from five different countries.
Throughout the day, visitors could also take part in “Artwalk Cēsis” – a special tour of galleries and artists’ studios, showcasing the region’s creative scene.
In the late afternoon, Ludwig van Beethoven’s Missa Solemnis was performed at the Cēsis Concert Hall, inaugurating the Cultural Capital Year with a grand and emotionally charged concert.
At 7:30 PM, the free event “Call of Light” took place in Vienības Square. Visitors witnessed an impressive light installation symbolizing unity and a new beginning for Cēsis’ cultural life. The installation was enriched by light effects created by artist Baiba Prindule-Rence, while the musical atmosphere was enhanced by a performance from Rihards Zaļupe and poetry recitations by actors from the Cēsis Theatre.
In the evening, thematic events continued in different locations across the region. In Vecpiebalga, the “Latvia’s Cultural Capital Cēsis 2025” sign was unveiled, alongside the closing event of the “Shine, Vecpiebalga!” initiative. Meanwhile, in Skujene, a demo event for the “Terra Festival” called “PORTAL” was held, featuring light and music projections. The day of celebrations concluded with a dynamic rave party at Vienības Square, hosted by 4LIVE Project, DJ Ex da Bass, and Linda Samsonova, while the Art Space “Mala” hosted an informal closing event.
This text has been automatically translated using artificial intelligence.
