Vīgante Park in Staburags came alive as a vibrant storybook of Selonia – filled with songs, dances, theatrical performances, and the spirit of togetherness – marking the official launch of the 2025 tourism season in the region.
The event was part of the Interreg VI-A Latvia–Lithuania Programme 2021–2027 project LL-00132 “Tourism Offer Development in Selonia” (Weekend in Village), implemented by the municipalities of Aizkraukle and Jēkabpils in Latvia and the Biržai District Municipality in Lithuania. The day featured a rich and engaging program. Festivities began with the conference “Traditional Selonian Heritage,” where project achievements and upcoming plans were presented. The results of the study “Selonia Begins Today” – exploring the modern identity of the Selonia region – were also introduced. In conclusion of the conference, a demonstration of traditional Selian singing was performed under the guidance of Iveta Tāle.
Following the conference, Vīgante Park hosted a vibrant cultural program with performances by folklore groups, vocal ensembles, dance troupes, and amateur theatre collectives. A highlight of the day was a theatrical performance featuring a musical plot in which Baron von Behr was awakened from his slumber.
Visitors also enjoyed boat trips on the Daugava River aboard the boat Vīgante, explored an exhibition of works by Aizkraukle Art School students, joined guided tours of the park, discovered landscapes from the manor era, and learned about traditional surname-giving customs. Local producers offered a variety of delicacies, pleasing both the eye and the palate.
With music, dance, celebration, and heartfelt laughter, the 2025 Selonia tourism season has begun – inviting everyone to discover a region rich in nature, culture, and community.
