In 2026, the Cēsis Region in northern Latvia invites visitors to explore one of the country’s most colourful cultural calendars. Set in the historic Gauja National Park, the area brings together festivals, art, food, sports, and local traditions that showcase Latvia’s vibrant spirit.
From city celebrations and music events to wild food experiences and international trail running, Cēsis offers an authentic look into Latvian culture throughout the summer and autumn seasons.
Reklāma
• 7.–18.07. Cēsis City Festival 820. Cēsis turns 820 this year! The city will celebrate with a diverse programme of music, art, and local initiatives. This year, the focus is on the people of Cēsis—their creativity and spirit. Join us for concerts and exhibitions that show off the unique character of our home.
• 17.–19.07. Music and Art Festival “Laba Daba”, “Ratnieki”, Līgatne. “Laba Daba” is a summer highlight known for its non-standard programme. It is a place of good vibes and respect for people and nature. Listen to everything from reggae and ethno-folk to rock and electronic music. It’s a creative journey in the fresh air where the atmosphere is always kind and welcoming.
• 19.07. Latvian Winemakers’ Festival, Straupe Horse Post. For the ninth year, winemakers from across the country gather at the historic Straupe Horse Post. Taste local fruit, berry, and grape wines and join the tradition of crushing fruit for next year’s vintage. There is also a Slow Food market with seasonal treats. Bring your own glass or get one at the entrance to help us stay green.
• 24.–25.07. “Vecpiebalga Opens Its Doors”, Vecpiebalga. A summer festival that invites you to step into the world of Piebalga. Discover local crafts, music, and community traditions. With concerts, a market, and historic activities, it’s the perfect way to see the heart of the Cesis region community.
• 25.07. “Imantdienas”, Castle Park, Cēsis. This will be an evening to remember. Imantdienas celebrates 50 years, the legendary composer Imants Kalniņš turns 85, and Cēsis is 820. The Castle Park will be filled with music and the traditional singing together that makes this event so special.
• 25.–26.07. Morocco Flavour Festival, Rakši Zoo. A true oasis of culture and taste. Spend two days on a journey to Morocco – no flight needed. Try authentic dishes, join workshops, and see fiery dances. Of course, the camels, llamas, and alpacas of Rakši Zoo will be there to greet you too.
• 18.07.–30.08. Cēsis Art Festival, Cēsis. The Cēsis Art Festival is a leading summer event for culture lovers. For over a month, the city is filled with visual art, music, theatre, and film. It brings together local and international artists for a programme that is both bold and inspiring.
AUGUST
• 01.–02.08. Gauja Trail by UTMB, Cēsis & Līgatne. An international trail running event held in the Gauja National Park. Part of the prestigious UTMB World Series, it attracts runners from across the globe and serves as a qualifier for the world finals at Mont Blanc. Distances ranging from 10km to 100km will take runners through Sigulda, Līgatne, and Cēsis, showcasing the natural and cultural heritage of the Gauja valley. It is a challenge for experienced athletes and a great way for newcomers to see Latvia’s most beautiful landscapes.
• 01.–02.08. Home Cafe Days in Cesis Region. Back for another year, local farms, gardens, and courtyards transform into unique pop-up cafes for one weekend. Experience local hospitality and flavours in Cēsis, Priekuļi, Amata, Līgatne, and Pārgauja.
• 08.08. Paper Factory Festival, Līgatne. A lifestyle festival celebrating a slower, more mindful pace of life. Held in the historic Līgatne Paper Factory courtyard, it marks its fifth year. Enjoy quality food from local producers and join the unique “Long Table Celebration” hosted by chef Ēriks Dreibants and the Michelin Green Star restaurant “Pavāru Māja”. There will also be a large market featuring local artisans.
• 08.08. Cēsis Sports Festival and Ghetto Games. A day of high energy as Ghetto Games comes to Cēsis. The festival attracts hundreds of participants and spectators for 3×3 basketball and football, bringing urban sports culture to the heart of the city.
• 08.08. Exhibition and Fair “Choose Piebalga”, Jaunpiebalga. A traditional gathering in Jaunpiebalga showcasing local craftsmanship and products. It is the perfect place to discover the unique spirit of the Piebalga area.
• 15.08. Veidenfests at “Kalāči”, Liepa. A festival of music, poetry, and art at the birthplace of poet Eduards Veidenbaums. It is a place to dance, create, and simply be. From writing poetry to making clay art, this event invites you to be both a spectator and a creator in the middle of a summer meadow.
• 15.–16.08. Home Cafe Days in Piebalga. Explore the hospitality of Vecpiebalga and Jaunpiebalga as locals open their doors to share family recipes. Discover the authentic culture and traditions of the region through food.
SEPTEMBER
• 05.09. Zaube Wild Food Festival. This year, the festival celebrates its 10th anniversary alongside 100 years of Zaube. It is a meeting of local heritage and professional cooking, where the secrets of the forest are shared. Join master chefs, hunters, and foragers to honour the flavours of the wild—from game meat to mushrooms and berries—in a day inspired by nature and tradition.
• 06., 12.09. International Festival “Cello Cēsis”, Cēsis Concert Hall. A prestigious event that sounds the start of the new autumn season. “Cello Cēsis” offers high-quality cello music across various genres and unexpected synergies between different art forms. It is a place of creative discovery and meaningful performances in a world-class setting.
• 12.–13.09. Rally Cēsis. One of the most anticipated events in the rally world. Feel the adrenaline as drivers tackle the gravel curves and changing terrain of the region in a test of skill and speed.
OCTOBER
• 03.10. Chili Festival, Rožu Square, Old Town, Cēsis. For the first time, Cēsis hosts an exciting Chili Festival, promising a spicy adventure. Explore a craft market, chili producers from across the Baltics, and themed street food alongside cooking workshops. The bravest can join the spicy wing and fresh chili eating contests. With a concert in Rožu Square and activities for children, it is a day for the whole family to enjoy. As the autumn leaves turn, Cēsis is bringing the heat!
• 03.10. Night of Fire, Vienkoči Park, Līgatne. Every year on the first Saturday of October, Vienkoči Park glows during the “Night of Fire”. Candles and bonfires light up the trails. On 3 October, enjoy ambient guitar sounds, fire shows, and folklore rituals. Join creative workshops and taste food prepared over an open fire. The evening reaches its peak with a torchlight procession at 9:00 PM. It is a wonderful way to experience a crisp autumn evening, filling up on light and warmth.
• 17.–25.10. Cesis Region Autumn Restaurant Week. Restaurant Week is a great way to discover the local tastes of the Cesis region. For one week, dining spots across the region will offer a special three-course meal at a fixed price. It is the perfect time to explore new flavours and enjoy the best of the local autumn harvest.
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