R I G A F E S T

Riga is the current City of Culture... so there are even more festivals and things happening here!

Before I even arrived, one of the museums started advertising their re-opening with giant painted snails throughout the city. The snails are large and heavy but apparently can be moved. They've been missing lately, but reappeared over the weekend with a fresh coat of paint! They were all a bit different: skulls, cows, polka dots, rainbows.... no two were the same!

We worked our way to the snails through the market that was going on for Riga Fest.... a celebration of the city. There were huge stands and stages. A full on carnival. Fireworks. Concerts. Swedish Acrobats. Naval ships. And good size craft market. There are some really fun and unique crafts here. Including wool mittens, hats, and sweaters.... wonder if I'll be needing those. Sadly, we missed the giant mascot and doll parade... maybe next year. Maybe not.

After spending all day Saturday at the school, a few of us got some dinner and then stumbled upon yet another festival going on.... the Albertes Ilea 100th anniversary. Celebrating 100 years of ... being a street? Okay, we aren't entirely sure what the festival was about but according to the name it was in fact the 100th anniversary of a small side street here in Riga. People were in period clothes, making fancy hair pieces, and playing ole time music. It was pleasant... despite the rain.

I love all the festivals and markets here. They are certainly one of my favorite parts. As it continues to rain and the temperatures droop lower and lower, I better soak up all these 'summer' events while I can!