Latvia is preparing to mark the 36th anniversary of the 1990 restoration of its independence by the Supreme Council. This anniversary commemorates the struggle to break free from Soviet occupation and restore the independence of the Republic of Latvia, which was originally founded on November 18, 1918.
The celebrations coincide with public holidays on May 1 and May 4, resulting in a four-day weekend for most residents. This window provides opportunities for citizens to explore various regions of the country through local and national events.
Cultural Celebrations in Rīga
The capital city will host a series of events centered on unity and national identity. At the Freedom Monument, residents and guests are invited to help create “Flowers of Latvia,” a blooming map of the country symbolizing mutual respect and unity. This initiative runs from 10:00 a.m. On May 4 until the following evening.
Official ceremonies at the Freedom Monument will begin with a flower-laying event by state and municipal officials at 10:30, followed by a Latvian school brass band parade at Freedom Square at 12:00.
Cultural activities also include a Latvian film marathon at the Splendid Palace cinema, with free screenings running from 1:00 p.m. To 11:00 p.m. The campaign to wear national costumes will feature a concert at Town Hall Square from 12:00 to 15:00 and a procession ending with the singing of “Daugav’ abas malas” at the Freedom Monument.
Family and Community Events
Vērmanes Garden will host the event “We are all together – in Latvia!” from 12:00 to 16:00. The park will offer workshops on environmentally friendly skills and table hockey demonstrations by European and World champion Edgars Caičis in preparation for the World Hockey Championship.
The garden’s stage will feature performances by children’s groups including “Knīpas un Knauķi,” “Kolibri,” “Podziņas,” “Momo,” and “Poppy,” concluding with a theatrical performance titled “Lemonade.”
Musical Programs and Suburban Concerts
Freedom Square will host “My Latvia – my responsibility” from 3:00 p.m. To 10:00 p.m. The program includes performances by Riga Municipality amateur art groups, Elza Rozentāle with an ethno-jazz quartet, and the post-folk group “Rikši.”
The evening will culminate at 8:30 p.m. With the concert “Spring. Eternal Youth,” featuring artists such as Intars Busulis and the vocal group “Latvian Voices.” This event will be broadcast by Latvian Television and available on LSM.
Festivities extend to the suburbs with various concerts:
- VEF Culture Palace: “Blow, Winds!” featuring the orchestra “Rīga” and Riga Chamber Choir “Ave Sol.”
- Cultural Center “Imanta”: A festive concert titled “Valodina” by Mārtiņš Kanters.
- Palace of Culture “Ziemeļblāzma”: The ethno group “Ogas” performing “Rokam!”
- Cultural Center “Iļģuciems”: “Song Paraphrases” by Aleksandra Špicberga’s trio “AKA.”
Free tickets for these suburban events are available online via the Biļešu paradīze box office.
Military Parade in Aizkraukle
The annual military parade, a tradition since 2012, will seize place in Aizkraukle, located approximately 90 kilometres south-east of Rīga. The day begins at 9:00 a.m. With a church service at the Aizkraukle St. Therese Roman Catholic Church.
The parade will commence at 11:00 a.m. On Gaismas Street, moving from the Aizkraukle Cultural Center to Spīdola Street. The event will feature Latvian units alongside the NATO Multinational Brigade in Latvia and will be broadcast live on Latvian Television and LSM.
A flyover may occur if conditions allow, featuring:
- State Border Guard helicopters “Augusta 109” and “Augusta 119.”
- Canadian Armed Forces CH-146 “Griffon” helicopters based at “Lielvārde.”
- Three United States Army “Black Hawk” helicopters as part of Operation “Atlantic Resolve.”
- Fighters from the NATO Baltic Airspace Patrol Mission.
From 11:00 to 16:00, the National Armed Forces and Ministry of the Interior will host equipment displays. Specialized demonstrations will include canine specialists and Special Operations Forces (12:00 to 13:20) and the amphibious M3 Rig system in the Daugava (13:00 to 15:00).
The military celebrations will conclude with a free concert at 2:00 p.m. At the Aizkraukle Cultural Center, featuring the National Armed Forces National Guard and the US Air Force in Europe and Africa orchestras.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is being celebrated on May 4th?
Latvia is marking the 36th anniversary of the 1990 restoration of its independence by the Supreme Council, as part of the effort to end Soviet occupation.
Where is the military parade taking place this year?
The military parade is being held in the city of Aizkraukle, which is about 90 kilometres south-east of Rīga.
Are there any free events available for the public?
Yes, admission to the Latvian film marathon at the Splendid Palace cinema is free, as is the military concert at the Aizkraukle Cultural Center. Free tickets for various suburban concerts can be obtained via the Biļešu paradīze box office.
Which of these traditions—the cultural costume processions or the military displays—do you experience best represents a nation’s identity?
