On August 16, 2025, a festive atmosphere filled the open-air section of the Jēkabpils History Museum “Sēļu sēta”, where the festival “With Selonia in the Heart” took place.
The event stood out with a rich and diverse programme, attracting visitors of all ages. From 10:00 to 17:00, guests at “Sēļu sēta” could immerse themselves in the cultural heritage of Selonia, enjoy musical and artistic performances, explore local crafts and books at the fair, and learn more about tourism opportunities in the Selonia region.
Musical and Cultural Programme
The stage came alive with performances by folklore groups, dance ensembles, and representatives of minority associations. The concert opened at 11:00 with performances by the folklore groups “Dignōjiši”, “Rati”, “Vīraksne”, and the chapel “Digna”. Later, the audience enjoyed lively shows by the post-folklore group “RIKŠI”, the ensemble “Minima”, as well as folk dance groups “Delveri”, “Zīlānietis”, and dance studios “Daugava”, “Vēja roze”, “Inda”, and several solo performers.
The day concluded with inspiring performances by minority groups “Rodacy”, “Rodnik”, “Spakanne”, “Barina”, and “Javir”, who showcased their cultural diversity and heartfelt energy.
Educational and Creative Activities
Visitors could take part in creative workshops, learning traditional skills such as candle winding and bath broom making. Special activities were organised for children, including riddles, orientation games, and other fun challenges.
Those interested in history and tourism could explore the Selonia region’s heritage and travel opportunities presented by the Jēkabpils Tourism Information Centre. The presentation introduced a variety of thematic routes suitable for families, history and culture enthusiasts, nature lovers, and foodies alike.
Taste and Local Delicacies
Throughout the day, visitors had the chance to taste traditional Selonia dishes prepared by ZS “Sīmaņi”. The artisan market offered a colourful assortment of local crafts and books celebrating the history and culture of the region.
The festival “With Selonia in the Heart” highlighted the cultural diversity and traditions of Selonia, strengthened Latvian–Lithuanian regional cooperation, and promoted tourism and local products. The event was a vivid reminder that Selonia continues to live in people’s hearts — through its art, traditions, and everyday life. Guests left with warm memories, new impressions, and a heartfelt wish to return to this special place once again.
