Latvija 3.daļa (Latvia Part 3)

Latvia is a country with strong cultural roots and a rich history. It was my second time visiting the capital, Riga and I felt familiar with the city. That's not to say I could find my way around without a map or a translator but I did remember the feel of the city. This quiet metropolis with a relaxed atmosphere has a mixed identity. It's a modern city with proud displays of Latvian architectural landmarks, but with many relics from the Soviet occupation visible like a faint image in a cloudy mirror.

We arrived in the afternoon to a cool sunny day. The country sits pretty far
North so even in the summer you should keep a jacket handy. Our friends Aaron and Sabine hosted us and we quickly settled in for food and drink with more friends in the heart of the city. As we walked through town we stopped by the Freedom Monument to listen to music and noticed a bunch of Russian teenagers rushing over to another kid and beginning to count and then let out a big "whoopee" as if it was the kid's birthday. I watched carefully and realized they were just kids having fun. Well apparently I looked a little too long because they caught me staring, and like an Alfred Hitchcock film they came towards me arms and fingers outstretched and did the same thing to me. It's a little strange to have 20 kids surround you and start shouting in cadence and throw their hands up in celebration but I relaxed and called them the Happiness Mob. They made me smile.

We spent a couple of days in Riga then made our way to the countryside to relax and explore a couple of small towns. And aside from our war with mosquitos one night (20+ kills in a 6 hour sleepless battle) it was truly a great getaway from daily life.

We came back to Riga with high anticipation for the purpose of our trip, The Latvian Song and Dance Festival. In addition to the entire country and ex-patriots descending on the city for one of the biggest homecoming celebrations I've ever witnessed, over 30,000 singers and dancers in full traditional dress practiced and performed for 3 straight days. Ieva's parents participated and choreographed part of the celebration and I got to hear first hand all of the work it takes to put together such a magnificent tradition. The day after the performances there was a parade through downtown Riga and all of the performers representing each town and village walked the streets singing dancing and beaming with pride. The moment made me feel nostalgic for Independence Day celebrations occurring at the same time in America. I understood what those folks felt, proudly holding their town's flag high and singing songs together; tradition, patriotic, togetherness. And although I'm not Latvian I understood their pride and couldn't help but to feel fortunate to witness such an incredible celebration.

You can see my pictures here. Enjoy.

Ciao Ciao!