Midsummer Celebrations in Smiltene Region: Līgo Market, Concert, and More
On June 20, Smiltene will host a traditional Līgo market and the concert performance “Skroderdienas Silmačos, Skroderdienas Smiltenē”, followed by a summer solstice gathering on June 21. Various events will take place across the region until June 23.
On Saturday, June 20, Smiltene will hold two events marking the upcoming Līgo and Jāņi (Midsummer) festivities. From 9:00 to 14:00, the Church Square and Marijas Street will host the traditional Līgo market, which annually attracts craftspeople, home producers, and traders. The municipality has received over 115 applications for participation. Visitors can purchase handicrafts, local delicacies, Jāņi wreaths, and holiday decorations.
At 19:00, the Jāņukalns stage will feature the concert performance “Skroderdienas Silmačos, Skroderdienas Smiltenē”, directed by Gita Skadiņa and Reinis Rešetins. The show involves amateur arts groups from the region: approximately 170 singers, 300 dancers, folklorists, actors, and the youth group “Pusnakts brigāde”. Based on Rūdolfs Blaumanis’ play, it incorporates modern elements to highlight that human nature remains unchanged. After the performance, at 22:00, a dance party will begin with the Smiltene brass band and soloists Jānis Krūmiņš (“Apvedceļš”) and Jānis Krūmiņš (“Ceļojums”).
On Sunday, June 21, at 21:00, everyone is invited to welcome the summer solstice at Līgo Hill with the folklore group “Rudzupuķe”. Admission is free. Other events in the region:
- June 19: Theater performances in Rauna and Mēru manor.
- June 21: Market and song game at Ape stage; solstice celebration at Raganu klintis with the band “Svērte”; festivities in Trapene and Vireši with a chapel and amateur theater.
- June 22: Sports day and solstice concert in Blome; theater show and dance party in Gaujiena.
- June 23: Midsummer night dance party in Trapene with Arnis Grapus.
