Latvian culture day in Birmingham gathers more than 500 compatriots / Article

In order to organize a celebration in the heart of Birmingham, countless permits, insurances and security are required, but despite various problems and obstacles, the plan has been implemented.

“It is very important for us that we, as Latvians, put the flag in the center of the city and in the heart and show that we are here! Because often they don’t know whether it is Latvia or another European country. Then, when we talk sometimes in discussions with municipalities, we let’s talk like Europe. Because this city is very multicultural, we are a minority as far as we are here. Therefore, I think it is very, very important that such a festival takes place here, in general.” says Lita Temistokleusa, leader and organizer of Latvian Culture Day.

In the Birmingham library, which is one of the largest in Europe, a children’s corner has been set up in one hall, where, in cooperation with Latvian schools, various activities have been organized.

“There are a lot of Latvian children, Latvian parents, but there are also a lot of foreigners here. A lot of people are also interested in activities, Latvian activities. Of course, we provide information both in Latvian and in English,” says Viktorija Gavare, a teacher at Norhampton’s Latvian school “Sprīdītis”. .

Nearby, Latvian theaters gather in the Symphony Hall, and a small exhibition can also be viewed there. Latvian artisans and merchants also arrived.

The main concert takes place in the square, where there is enough space for a choir with 130 singers on the stage with a white tablecloth, and 16 dance groups next to the stage in the square.

“We have gathered together to lay a white tablecloth, to celebrate the day of rebirth and restoration of our beloved homeland, and we are extremely happy that we will be able to dance and please our viewers right away! We love our Fatherland!” expressed by the Peterborough senior dance group “Virpulis”.

Many passers-by stop and ask for a photo together because they are attracted by the gorgeous outfits.

“Quite a lot of people, not only guys, but also girls and wives, just come to take pictures with me and my choir members, because it’s really such an impression, it’s such a day, everyone is so gorgeous, so beautiful!” Kristīne Neigla, the singer of the Bristol Latvian choir “Tilts”, is happy.

The group dance even had to be repeated, because the audience was excited and sang along.