Līgo Celebration: Eight Drownings and 81 Drunk Drivers in Five Days
During this year's Līgo festival, eight people drowned and police arrested 81 drunk drivers – more than in the previous two years combined. The author calls for more responsible celebration.
This year's Līgo (Midsummer) celebrations in Latvia spanned five days, with sunny weather on June 23. Various events took place nationwide, including numerous theater performances of "Skroderdienas Silmačos". However, the holiday statistics are grim: the State Fire and Rescue Service reported eight drownings in five days. The State Police arrested 81 drivers under the influence of alcohol – more than in the previous two years combined. Many people were injured and some died in road accidents during the holidays.
The author notes that most people celebrate responsibly, but the actions of a few dozen irresponsible individuals spoil the festive mood and lead to tragedies. She calls for a change in attitude: preventing friends from driving drunk or swimming under the influence. The essence of Līgo is togetherness and celebrating life, not recklessness. She hopes that next year, after Jāņi, people will talk more about beautiful concerts and sunrises rather than tragedies.
