Ice Sculptures: Illusion of Power Festival in Latvia – Dates & Winners

Jelgava’s “Mītava” Open-Air Concert Hall: A Hub for Ice Sculpture and Cultural Events

Jelgava, Latvia, is quickly becoming a destination for both music lovers and art enthusiasts, largely thanks to the “Mītava” Open-Air Concert Hall and the annual Ice Sculpture Festival. While the current “Illusion of Strength” ice sculpture exhibition is subject to weather conditions, the venue is establishing itself as a key cultural landmark.

The Rise of Open-Air Venues and Winter Festivals

The “Mītava” concert hall, built in 2014 as part of a larger project to revitalize Pasta Island, exemplifies a growing trend: the demand for outdoor performance spaces. This venue, with its unique shell-shaped roof – the only one of its kind in the Baltic states – offers seating for 700 and a parterre for 500, enhancing the experience for attendees. The hall’s design also improves acoustics and extends the event season.

Winter festivals, like the International Ice Sculpture Competition held in Jelgava, are gaining popularity as destinations seek to attract tourists during the off-season. The 2026 competition saw Mongolia take first place with their sculpture, “Self-Imposed Liberation,” followed by Ukraine and Estonia. Individual awards went to artists from Lithuania, Germany, and Indonesia.

Accessibility and Event Scheduling

Currently, a portion of Pasta Island around the concert hall requires a paid ticket for access. This is due to ongoing preparations for the Ice Sculpture Festival. Even though, from February 10th, the ice sculptures will be open to the public daily from 11:00 to 20:00. The festival is expected to draw significant crowds, showcasing the venue’s capacity to host large-scale events.

The “Mītava” Concert Hall: Beyond Ice Sculptures

The “Mītava” concert hall isn’t limited to winter events. It has already hosted a variety of performances and was awarded first place in the Latvian Construction Year Award in 2019 for its wooden construction. Upcoming events include performances by the “Tandēms trijatā” ensemble on February 8th, the musical group “Vintāža” on February 7th, Normunds Rutulis and the Riga Orchestra on February 8th, the group “Tautumeitas” on February 8th, and “Instrumenti” on February 7th. A performance by Maksim Galkin is scheduled for August 15, 2026.

Did you recognize? The roof of the “Mītava” concert hall is constructed from approximately 530 cubic meters of wood, with the longest span reaching 60 meters.

The Future of Cultural Tourism in Jelgava

Jelgava’s investment in cultural infrastructure, like the “Mītava” concert hall and the Ice Sculpture Festival, positions the city as a growing hub for tourism. The combination of unique architectural design, diverse event programming, and a picturesque location on Pasta Island creates a compelling destination for both local and international visitors.

Pro Tip: Check the official Biļešu Paradīze and Biļešu Serviss websites for the most up-to-date event schedules and ticket information.

FAQ

Q: When are the ice sculptures open to the public?
A: From February 10th, daily from 11:00 to 20:00.

Q: Where is the “Mītava” Open-Air Concert Hall located?
A: It’s located on Pasta Island in Jelgava, Latvia.

Q: Is there a fee to access Pasta Island?
A: Yes, a portion of Pasta Island around the concert hall requires a ticket, particularly during the Ice Sculpture Festival preparations.

Q: What kind of events does the “Mītava” concert hall host?
A: A variety of events, including concerts, festivals, and performances.

What are your thoughts on the growing trend of outdoor concert venues? Share your opinions in the comments below!