Weekend Activities: Exploring Museums, Visiting Churches, Enjoying Beaches (Sand)
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On Saturday, 17th May, 2025, Latvia will be a hotspot for cultural enthusiasts as three unique events unfold across the country. The 21st edition of Museum Night, the 19th International Sand Sculpture Festival "Summer Signs", and the Night of Churches and Church Open Day will transform Latvia into a vibrant cultural hub.
Museum Night, now in its 21st year, will see 245 museums and organizations participating nationwide. Among the cities joining in the celebration is Daugavpils, with museums extending their hours for visitors to explore multiple cultural institutions during extended evening hours. The event typically occurs in the evening and night hours, although specific timing details have not been provided [1][3].
The theme for this year's Museum Night is Mythical Characters, with activities taking place at 153 locations in the regions. For more information and a detailed programme, visit the official website.
Meanwhile, the International Sand Sculpture Festival "Summer Signs" will be held in Jelgava on the same day. This year's festival will feature 17 sculptors from 11 countries, showcasing their incredible creations based on the theme of Mythical Characters. Although the festival is typically held in June, it appears there will be an exception this year [4]. However, it's essential to note that the festival does not offer free admission to exhibitions or special events, unlike Museum Night.
The Night of Churches and Church Open Day is a separate event from Museum Night, occurring concurrently on 17th May. This event allows visitors to explore churches and learn about cultural and spiritual values. Participating churches are usually open until midnight or later, offering visitors an opportunity to enjoy music, art, architecture, conversations, songs, silence, and prayer [5]. More information about the Night of Churches can be found on Jelgava's culture website.
Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or a sand sculpture enthusiast, 17th May, 2025, promises to be a memorable day in Latvia's cultural calendar. Be sure to mark your calendars and prepare for an unforgettable cultural adventure across the country.
References:
[1] Museum Night website
[2] Jelgava's culture website
[3] Latvian Museum of Contemporary Art website
[4] International Sand Sculpture Festival website
[5] Night of Churches and Church Open Day website
As the cultural excitement grows in Latvia, it's evident that the 17th May, 2025, is set to be a memorable day for various enthusiasts. Not only will EU citizens have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the 21st edition of Museum Night, showcasing mythical characters, but they can also explore home-and-garden designs and lifestyle elements through visiting participating churches during the Night of Churches and Church Open Day. Furthermore, the International Sand Sculpture Festival "Summer Signs," featuring sculptors from around the world, will enchant everyone with their creations based on mythical characters in Jelgava on the same day.
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