On June 5th, a warmly welcomed new tourism hub opened in the heart of Nereta, destined to become a trusted support point for travelers and local businesses alike. The Nereta Tourism Information Point is a place where Selonia’s rich culture, traditions, and a fresh, modern approach to tourism come together. Here, everyone can feel the living rhythm of the region, discover its unique values, and find new and exciting ways to experience this beautiful yet little-known part of Latvia.
This hub is more than just a stop — it is a heartfelt gateway to Selonia, where stories about people, places, and traditions passed down through generations come alive.
The tourism hub was created with the support of the European Union within the framework of the Interreg VI-A Latvia–Lithuania Programme 2021–2027, as part of project LL-00132 “Tourism Offer Development in Selonia” (“Weekend in Village”). The project is implemented by the municipalities of Aizkraukle and Jēkabpils in cooperation with the Biržai district municipality in Lithuania. Its goal is to strengthen local cooperation, improve the quality of tourism offers, and raise awareness of Selonia, especially in the cross-border context.
Visitors had the chance to explore the exhibition of Selonia wedding crowns, which revealed the region’s rich cultural heritage, ancient traditions, craftsmanship skills, and symbolism. Local artisans delighted visitors with their unique creations at the craft market. The event was enriched by musical performances from both local and guest artists — including the Šiaudėliai folklore group from the Biržai Cultural Centre in Lithuania, the “Pūcēni” dance group, the “Kamenes” senior dance group from Pilskalns, the “Spigas” band, and the female vocal ensemble “Narite.” Paula Ošiņa and Artūrs Ošiņš performed poems that touched hearts and enchanted the audience.
This event was not just the opening of the Tourism Centre — it was a true celebration of Selonia. It showed that this culture is alive, diverse, and uniting. People of different generations, traditions, and new ideas came together, creating a special atmosphere — one that inspires, brings people closer, and reminds us of our roots.
Here, every traveler is warmly invited not only to see but also to truly feel and experience — whether through cultural events, nature trails, craft workshops, or tasting local flavors. We believe tourism can be both educational and deeply heartfelt. This is exactly what the Nereta tourism hub offers — a genuine, warm experience woven with local identity. This is where the journey through the heart of Selonia begins.
