(in)sight Liepāja - European Capital of Culture 2027 Programme

(in)sight

The European Capital of Culture Programme

(in)sight

The European Capital of Culture Programme

I was born in Liep ! ja, and this gives me a distinctive perspective within Europe. The sea, sand, amber, and wind shape a quietly proud, slightly harsh sensibility that comes together in the resilient character of Liep ! ja’s people. It is an awareness of one’s roots and a deep love for the city; it is the courage to look towards the horizon, to dream boldly, and to create remarkable things.

Liep ! ja is a city that is never at rest. This is where the wind is born – a force that moves, challenges, and forces us to choose a direction. The wind is our sound, our breath, and our way of thinking. It is from this movement that the Liep ! ja 2027 – European Capital of Culture concept (un)rest is born. (un)rest is not anxiety but energy: a readiness to listen, change perspective, and involve those who have so far remained outside our field of vision. Our programme is united by one impulse – the courage to be restless. We live in a time when the world is fragile, noisy, and overflowing with disturbing signals. Europe needs resilience. Culture can no longer be just a backdrop –it must be a tool, a voice, and a place where real and sometimes uncomfortable conversations take place. In Liep ! ja 2027, art and culture are action: the opportunity to reflect and act together with Europeans, to strengthen values, to nurture communities, and to create new collaborations.

Liep ! ja 2027 is a programme that transforms over multiple years – it is a shared journey that we all have been on together with artists, thinkers, various communities, and partners both in Europe and in Latvia. All of us gain insights into ourselves and others along the way. This is an invitation to join the movement with other Europeans, feel the breath of the city, meet its people, and let yourself be carried by the wind that leads to new experiences. I invite you to be part of this journey – to watch & listen, react & share, and participate & create together! May Liep ! ja 2027 become a horizon where diversity, imagination, and the power of community meet.

See you there!

Baiba Bartkeviča Artistic Director of

Liep ! ja 2027

Programme

What is (un)rest?

They say – the wind that was born in Liep!ja, blows across the world and brings boats back home to Kurzeme. With the wind comes rest and (un)rest. It is the wind of change. For some, there is a little too much rest, for others, too much (un)rest. The wholesome concept of (un)rest refers to a dynamic process where rest is stirred into action, and unrest is soothed into something more peaceful and approachable.

Liepāja is where the wind is born –the source of rest and (un)rest, a force that stirs creativity and lulls the soul.

From this concept of (un)rest, our five-line programme addresses the shared questions of Liepāja and Europe.

Our vision is to provide guideposts in an ever-changing world of rest and (un)rest.

Five Programme Lines

Port Paradox

Liep!ja is a city of paradoxes. Here, the brisk northerly winds meet sun-warmed beaches, while metal coexists with lace. The secluded Karosta with its military history contrasts with the vibrant energy of freewheeling rock music. Industry thrives alongside leisure, and these opposites intertwine to create the distinctive character of our city. The spirit of (un)rest has shaped Liep!ja’s urban identity and cultural landscape over the years. In a world increasingly dominated by standardisation and globalisation, how do we retain our authenticity? Through this thematic line, we will discover the paradoxes that define Liep!ja, exploring our rich heritage and sharing our unique story with the world.

European Dream

We know what the “American Dream” is, but do we know what the European Dream is? What is our dream of a good life? What unites us in Europe and what divides us? How do Liep!ja and Kurzeme fit into the broader European community, being an integral part of it? Do we hear the echoes of European history in this part of Latvia and what they are? Are solidarity, diversity and respectful coexistence yet again values for which we must once again fight in today’s Europe? What does Europe represent today, and what kind of future do we want to create? Let’s shift perspectives and explore the values that bind our societies locally and globally. Together with visionaries, thinkers, and creators from cities, regions, and beyond, we will seek answers to these pressing questions. Rooted in the belief that European coexistence is worth reflecting on and nurturing, this programme recognizes that our shared ideals are constantly evolving, needing to be redefined and refined in response to changing times.

New

Eyes!

With a vivid line-up of events in this programme, we all together will embark on a journey through the land of (un)rest – Liep!ja, Kuld īga, and South Kurzeme – seeing them through “new eyes.” Together, we’ll dive deep into the heart of these regions, unveiling their rich identities and the colourful kaleidoscope of their communities. Let’s set sail on a rediscovery of who we are and how our stories intertwine: from neighbour to neighbour, colleague to colleague, townsperson to rural resident, young adult to senior citizen, and fisher to dressmaker, poet to doctor. This is a quest to explore the profound joy and collective responsibility of creating together in our towns, rural havens, and municipalities. With open hearts and curious minds, we’ll explore how to live harmoniously within our communities, ignite creative brainstorming, and celebrate the simple joys of life right here, where we call home.

Deliberate Modesty

Embraced by the Baltic Sea, forests, pastures, and lakes, Latvia is a haven of natural beauty and strength – a true treasure of the Earth. Yet, we face a stark reality: the relentless depletion of our resources, both locally and globally, has escalated into an acute natural crisis. This disregard for our environment has taken its toll, not only on nature but also on our bodies and minds, entangling us in a chaotic cycle of consumption that disrupts our physical and mental balance. Through this thematic line, we embark on a quest to find harmony between our human needs and the health of our environment and cultivate a symbiotic relationship between nature and humanity. To forge connections between science, innovative technologies, green entrepreneurship, and the arts, actively involving our communities in the (un)rest land to drive meaningful change. Through exchanges, artistic activities, and educational initiatives, we aim to restore equilibrium among our body, mind, and surroundings. Together, we’ll embrace the philosophy of deliberate modesty as a sustainable way of life.

Creative

Foresight

The extraordinary shifts triggered by rapid technological advancements, climate change, and global upheavals highlight the urgent need for us to prepare for the challenges that lie ahead. Innovation, fuelled by engaged and creative communities, serves as a sustainable engine for progress – not just in bustling metropolises but also in the heart of rural areas. This thematic line aims to bridge the gap between online and offline domains, uniting diverse generations and sectors to uncover the needs and opportunities of the future. Through imaginative probability games in art, design, and educational projects, we will ignite our collective creativity and spark conversations about the legacy we wish to leave behind not only for Kurzeme but also for the world at large.

Programme Lines

Programme Event Highlights

Liep!ja 2027 Opening Weekend

The European Capital of Culture year will open with a programme of special events launching shared celebrations across the (un)rest Land – in cultural venues throughout Liep!ja, South Kurzeme and Kuld īga.

On the official opening day, 23 January, the morning will begin with an exciting amber hunt along Liep!ja Beach, followed by the international exhibition “Baltic Amber Takes the World by Surprise” at the Liep!ja Museum, exploring amber’s role in culture, history and contemporary art. Throughout the day, visitors are welcome to join the experience on the Road of (un)rest –a sound walk revealing Liep!ja’s character through its places, historical layers and human stories, while also reflecting the city’s vision for the future. Five performative stops along the route introduce the key thematic lines of the Liep!ja 2027 programme and offer a first insight into upcoming (un)rest events.

The day culminates in two major musical highlights: the open-air concert performance “City Symphony”, directed by Matīss Kaža and created by an excellent team of artists, followed by the official opening concert-ceremony at the Great Amber Concert Hall with the premiere of “Wind Symphony” – a new musical work by composer Ēriks E&envalds, written to mark this particular occasion.

After the official events, residents and guests are invited to continue the celebrations across the city – in bars, restaurants, cafés, clubs, galleries and other cultural venues.

On 22 January, Liep!ja 2027 opening events will unfold in South Kurzeme and Kuldīga, celebrating the cultural richness and creative (un)rest energy of these regions.

22 to 24 January 2027

Interactive Exhibition “Baltic Amber Takes the World by Surprise”

Liep!ja Museum, in cooperation with international partners and museums from Latvia, Lithuania, Germany, Poland, France, and Croatia, as well as private collectors worldwide, will present a largescale interactive exhibition tracing the story of Baltic amber from the Stone Age to the present day. The exhibition will be complemented by a catalogue, meetings with project partners, museum experts, and researchers, alongside masterclasses and educational activities, offering visitors an engaging and hands-on experience. The project aims to foster knowledge exchange, inspire creativity, and promote Baltic amber on the international stage.

International Art Residency “Amber Season in P!vilosta”

An international art residency will take place in P!vilosta, bringing together world-renowned contemporary artists. Participants will explore the theme of amber, offering fresh, contemporary interpretations while highlighting the region’s distinctive character. The residency will feature both pre-selected artists and five winners of an open competition organised by the Association “ASTE. Art, Science, Technology, Education (ASTE).

In partnership with ASTE, a symposium titled “ElektrON – The Future of Amber” will accompany the residency, featuring art experts, masterclasses, performances, and study trips.

The residency aims to establish an international creative platform where artists can delve into the theme of amber and integrate it into the broader landscape of contemporary art.

January –June 2027

International Symposium “ElektrON – The Future of Amber”

Amber has long been one of the symbols that has shaped the Baltic Sea’s international identity. The project ElektrON – The Future of Amber will open a call for innovative artists who merge technology and science in their creative practice. Together with researchers and historians, the selected artists will take part in an international symposium in Liep!ja and P!vilosta in May 2026, exploring the cultural role of amber and other fossil materials. During artist residencies, they will create works that reveal amber’s contemporary potential in bold and unexpected ways. These works will later feature in an exhibition at the Liep!ja Museum, running from January to June 2027.

Concert Series “Stars in Amber”

The concert series will bring world-renowned artists to Liep!ja, strengthening the status of the Concert Hall Great Amber as an internationally acclaimed performance venue and positioning the city as a major European cultural destination. By inviting leading performers who have not previously appeared in Liep!ja, the project will enhance the city’s international reputation and offer audiences – both local and from abroad – exceptional musical experiences of the highest quality.

The initiative aims to enrich the European Capital of Culture programme while broadening Liep!ja’s visibility and appeal across Europe.

Core Series of Discursive Events “Agora of Values”. Forum “(un)rest in peace”

Agora of Values is a series of forums at the heart of the Liep!ja 2027 programme line “European Dream”. Bringing together leading experts from Latvia and across Europe, the forums merge contemporary debates on issues of local, European, and global relevance with innovative knowledge-sharing formats, diverse audience engagement, and artistic elements that enhance the discussions with a rich aesthetic experience.

The project began with the Nature Trouble forum during the 2025 Sea Festival, where discussions, lectures, musical and art performances, and workshops explored humanity’s relationship with nature and its future. In 2027, three further events will unfold: the “(un)rest in peace” forum, the “Democracy for Non-Ideal People” forum, and the “Extended Realities” immersive art symposium and exhibition.

In 2027, Agora of Values will focus on the theme of global peace. Following the reasoning of Immanuel Kant, who published his seminal works in the late 18th century in Latvia, including Liep!ja, peace is not a natural state but something that must be carefully nurtured and actively maintained. His short treatise “Perpetual Peace” (1795) remains strikingly relevant heading towards the second quarter of the 21st century.

The forum “(un)rest in peace” will examine peace from multiple perspectives, including international security, reconciliation with a complex past, and the acceptance of diversity in today’s society, while exploring ways to meet future challenges. The programme will include lectures and masterclasses, such as sessions on non-violent communication, offering participants both insight and practical tools.

Personal Exhibition by Chiharu Shiota (塩田千春)

Japanese artist Chiharu Shiota (塩田千春) is one of the most internationally recognised figures in contemporary art. She is known for her monumental, immersive installations in which threads, string and wire fill entire spaces, intertwining with everyday objects to create unexpected and powerful associations. At the heart of Shiota’s practice are themes of memory, identity, bodily experience and the meaning of place.

Woven threads, suspended objects and familiar items are transformed into symbolic elements that link intimate, personal stories to wider social, historical and geopolitical contexts. In Shiota’s installations, the viewer becomes an active participant: moving through the space, their presence completes the work, turning the experience itself into part of the artwork.

Organised by Liep!ja 2027

© AKKA/LAA, Riga, 2026 and Chiharu Shiota

“Illuminated Liep!ja” Festival of Lights

The much-loved light festival “Illuminated Liep!ja” will expand its creative horizons with the participation of international artists – new shine will be added by the installations created by Japanese and Finnish artists. The event will merge art, technology and innovation, transforming the city’s streets, squares and building façades into a dazzling visual experience unlike anything seen before. Locals will also have the opportunity to take part directly in the creation of artworks, contributing their own touch to the illumination of the city.

The idea is to get people thinking differently about urban space and get more of them involved by creating a light walk as a way for artists, the city and its residents to work together.

8 to 11 April 2027

Opera “Sun & Sea”

The internationally acclaimed Lithuanian contemporary opera Sun & Sea (“Saulė ir j ( ra”) challenges the conventions of classical opera, expanding the genre through a luminous fusion of performance, visual art and music. The work achieved global recognition in 2019, when it was presented at the Lithuanian Pavilion at the Venice Biennale and received the prestigious Golden Lion. Set on an artificial indoor beach, the opera unfolds through seemingly ordinary scenes of leisure, as soloists address themes of the climate crisis, consumer habits and contemporary society. The libretto weaves humor and irony with sharp social insight, creating a striking contrast between the visual levity of the setting and the gravity of global existential concerns. Each musical piece serves as an allegory of humanity’s relationship with nature, the environment and one another, inviting audiences to reflect on their place in the world’s delicate ecosystem.

Spatial Music Concert Programme “Embrace the Sound”

During Liep!ja 2027, the Wiktorija Cultural Centre will be reimagined as a unique acoustic environment, transformed into a pop-up spatial music concert hall offering a three-dimensional sound experience over two days. The programme will present live ambisonics performances combining kantele, voice and electronics, alongside fixed media-based sound works. The project continues a long-term mission to introduce audiences in Liep!ja to spatial music, deepening public understanding of its diverse forms and the technologies and artistic practices behind them.

24 to 25 April 2026 and 23 to 24 April 2027

Cultural Tourism Route “A Walk Through the Town’s Stories” in Kuldīga

An innovative and sustainable cultural tourism route will be developed in Kuldīga, connecting the town’s historical quarters with local and European legends to create a rich international context. The project is all about preserving and promoting the region’s oral heritage, fostering international cooperation and strengthening Kuldīga’s reputation as a place of cultural significance.

Art Festival on Wind, Climate and Soundscape “Atmospheric Waves”

Through sound art the festival approaches wind as a sonic, ecological and cultural phenomenon, where wind is explored as a planetary force that shapes landscapes, climate systems and human perception. Liepāja’s coastal vibe offers a natural setting for dialogue between art, science and society.

The “Atmospheric Waves” programme will take place across the urban environment and include an international exhibition, workshops, sound walks, performances, artist residencies and an international symposium with CENSE (The Central-European Network For Sonic Ecologies). These activities are designed to encourage public participation and foster exchange across disciplines.

By the end of 2027, five permanent environmental artworks in Liepāja will make invisible atmospheric processes perceptible, highlighting climate change as artistic witnesses of our time. The project will conclude with the publication of a digital catalogue.

9 May 2026 and 2027

Europe Day

On 9 May, Europe Day will be celebrated across the Land of (un)rest, establishing a tradition that marks our connection to Europe. Through discussions, masterclasses, community activities, food, and other cultural experiences, participants will come together to shape their own European story while fostering engagement in multicultural neighbourhoods.

Each year, European Day activities will be all about (un)rest as a European Capital of Culture and a stage for celebrations inspired by the European Union. By involving non-governmental organisations and local communities, the events will explore Liep!ja’s and the region’s role within the EU, reflecting on both realised and untapped opportunities, and encouraging dialogue, civic participation, and shared cultural understanding. The goal is to establish a new tradition of jointly celebrating Europe Day, empowering citizens to take action and feel more connected to the European community fostering a continuous conversation about our role in shaping the future of Europe.

International Conference “Grobiņa Archaeological Ensemble” and Seeburg Living History Festival 2027

Seeburg Living History Festival 2027 aims to promote Liep!ja as the European Capital of Culture 2027 and highlight the Baltic Sea region, with particular emphasis on the Curonians’ role during the Viking Age. The festival will blend scholarly research, historical reenactment, and public participation, creating an engaging platform where history comes to life for both specialists and the wider audience.

Core Series of Discursive Events “Agora of Values”. Forum “Democracy for Non-Ideal People”

The programme “Democracy for Non-Ideal People” invites participants to see themselves as active agents within democracy, offering creative and unconventional ways to voice opinions on current social and political realities. At its heart is the Vaimanu Choir – a wailing procession formed by residents of Liep!ja and South Kurzeme – who will take to the streets, singing about everyday frustrations, shared concerns and the determination to turn flaws into strengths. In spring 2027, anyone interested will be invited to apply to join the choir and work alongside artists to create songs of discontent and commitment. The process will culminate in the Vaimanu Forum, where choir members and local decision-makers will come together to listen to one another and seek shared commitments to improving life in the city. The programme will also include Failure Stories, in which five seemingly exemplary figures of democracy recount their missteps with humour and honesty, and a Democracy Feast – a convivial gathering where like-minded people can meet, exchange ideas and draw collective strength.

Project “Soft Layer”.

Karosta Decoratelier

Artist Jozef Wouters and his collective Decoratelier work with scenography as a tool for shared living, creating spaces shaped through dialogue, storytelling and collective imagination. In Liep!ja’s Karosta residential district, and in close collaboration with the local community, surrounding nature and the area’s layered history, Wouters will develop a multifunctional, everyday space for children of all ages within a multi-storey residential building. The project prioritises accessibility for all residents, documents the creative process, and actively involves both local and international audiences. In doing so, it strengthens public engagement in the shaping of shared outdoor environments and the future of community spaces.

Karosta Children’s Symphony. An Orchestra’s Guide to the Life of a Young Person

Karosta Children’s Symphony Orchestra “An Orchestra’s Guide to the Life of a Young Person” is a collaborative project that brings together music, visual art and performance. Over an 18-month period, the Bristol-based artist collective “Action Hero” (UK) will work closely with the Liep!ja Karosta Children’s Music School, its pupils, young people with no prior musical training, and emerging composers to create an original symphonic composition and staged production.

Conceived as a journey through creative dramaturgy, the symphony unfolds in distinct movements, each reflecting a different stage of childhood or adolescence. Personal stories from local young people are transformed into the artistic narrative, offering an emotional exploration of growing up through sound, image and performance.

Liep!ja Opera Festival “Opera by the Sea”

The festival presents three opera events, which are all different in style, showing just how diverse the operatic world is. They also present new works by Latvian composers and welcome opera artists who are well-known all over the world. At the same time, Liep!ja’s cultural scene will reach beyond Latvia, with events also taking place in the European Capitals of Culture, Kaunas and Tartu.

A highlight of the festival is the first performances of newly composed operas by Latvian composers Art(rs Maskats and Rihards Dubra. At the same time, there’ll be concert programmes of French, Spanish and Latvian opera music in Estonia and Lithuania, which’ll lay the groundwork for the symphony orchestras of Liep!ja, Tartu and Kaunas to work together long-term. Inspired by Liep!ja’s century-long opera tradition, the festival aims to present the city to international audiences as a lively and significant cultural centre, speaking through the universally understood language of opera and strengthened by the presence of world-class guest artists.

International Symposium of Cast Iron Art

The cast iron art symposium will bring a dynamic addition to the region’s cultural scene, as professional sculptors create cast iron works while exploring the artistic potential of this medium. The melting and casting processes will be open to the public, offering a visually striking experience on the banks of the Tebra River for visitors of all interests.

The project aims to foster a fresh approach to artistic exploration, educating both professionals and the public through international collaborations, creative residencies, discussions, symposiums, and a closing exhibition, while providing opportunities for direct engagement with a wider audience.

“Baringtons K2” in cooperation with Liep!ja 2027

L!čplēsis Garden Festival

The L!čpl)sis Garden Festival is set to transform Karosta with an action-packed programme of activities, including creative workshops, sports games, art and music performances, and handson encounters with the work and equipment of the police, armed forces, firefighters and other everyday city heroes. Liep!ja 2027 is adding a contemporary layer to the festivities. Audiences will experience site-specific art performances that resonate with Karosta’s distinctive landscape and its raw, unconventional character.

The project will strengthen community cohesion in Karosta, recognise local activists and create a shared celebration where different generations of Liep!ja residents can come together through values, art and a strong sense of belonging.

20 to 23 August 2026 and 19 to 21 August 2027

Liep!ja Theatre International Festival “Theatre in Close-Up”

The Liep!ja Theatre Festival “Theatre in Close-Up” will become an annual celebration, featuring a fresh international programme of performances each year. The festival will present theatre from across the Baltic Sea region, alongside an accompanying programme of discussions on the performing arts, presentations of new performance concepts, readings of plays developed during playwright residencies, and other activities, many of which will be free to attend. This festival will be a great chance to get to know Baltic Sea Region theatres, their performances and art processes behind, also taking some time to reflect on them.

International Choir Festival “Europa Cantat 2027”

From 9 to 15 August 2027, Liep!ja will host one of Europe’s largest amateur choir festivals – the 22nd International Choir Music Festival “Europa Cantat”, welcoming around 3,000 singers from across the globe.

During the festival, Liep!ja is going to be buzzing with concerts and sing-alongs, opening and closing events, and performances by guest artists. Participants will join 35 masterclasses, having the privilege of learning a rich repertoire of genres, guided by the talents of outstanding conductors. This unique opportunity isn’t just about music; it’s about fostering cultural exchange, deepening friendships, and expanding musical horizons.

The festival aims to celebrate and advance the amateur choir movement, fostering shared musical experiences, international exchange, and reinforcing Liep!ja’s role as a central hub for European cultural events.

August 2025 –August 2027

Concert Series “Gems of South Kurzeme”

The project aims to celebrate three remarkable figures – P)teris Vasks, Ēriks E&envalds, and Ēvalds Rimbenieks – by presenting high-quality cultural events and establishing South Kurzeme as a hub of artistic inspiration on a European scale.

On 16 April 2026, the series will continue with a splendid concert in Aizpute dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the outstanding composer P)teris Vasks, performed by the Latvian Radio Choir and the chamber orchestra Sinfonietta Rīga. Later, on 30–31 July 2027, Priekule will host a festival of Ēriks E&envalds’ works to mark the composer’s 50th birthday. The celebration will feature the Liep!ja Symphony Orchestra and the State Academic Choir “Latvija”, under the artistic direction of M!ris Sirmais.

The “Rimbenieks” Festival has already become a key part of South Kurzeme’s musical tradition. Musicians from the Liep!ja Symphony Orchestra team up with like-minded colleagues in various ensembles to perform high-quality chamber music in the most beautiful locations in South Kurzeme.

by South Kurzeme Municipality Culture Department in collaboration with Liep!ja Symphony Orchestra

Photo Campaign “One Day in Liep!ja”

In 2026, Liep!ja will host an exhibition featuring historical photographs from the “One Day in Latvia” campaigns (1987, 2007), alongside selected works from the plein air event held as part of the Liep!ja 2027 programme.

The project will culminate on 27 August 2027 with One Day in Liep!ja – a large-scale photo campaign inviting professional and amateur photographers to document everyday life, people, architecture, and key moments across Liep!ja, Kuld īga, and the South Kurzeme region. Plans are underway to expand the initiative by welcoming European photographers to join.

The campaign will result in a specially designed book, compiling the most significant works to create a lasting legacy of the city during its year as European Capital of Culture.

Democracy Residence “European Dream”

Central to the project is an international democracy residency “European Dream”, bringing together six participants from diverse fields. The residency will provide a platform for dialogue and creative solutions to reinforce democratic practices in society, complemented by a series of public events to engage the wider community. It will explore how the residents of the (un)rest Land perceive the European Dream and democracy, and whether democratic values are seen as an integral part of it.

The project aims to strengthen democracy by engaging experts and involving the public, while developing and testing innovative methods and tools to encourage civic participation.

Zenta Mauriņa Summer School and Accompanying Programme

An international summer school for artists, named after the writer Zenta Mauriņa, will take place in Grobiņa, South Kurzeme Region. The programme will place particular emphasis on artists and writers with disabilities, especially those working outside major locations, offering them access to residencies, masterclasses and mentoring led by professional practitioners.

The summer school will create a shared creative environment where diverse artistic practices, experiences and perspectives can meet and develop together. By bringing artists with and without disabilities into dialogue, it will create an inclusive bond and cultural space, encourage collaboration and invite the local community to engage with contemporary art processes.

The aim of the project is to establish an accessible co-creation platform that promotes visibility, participation and new perspectives on cultural accessibility and inclusion in Latvia.

August –September 2027

Kuldīga Region Residency for Creative Authors “Notes on the Margins”

The creative authors’ residency in Kuldīga Region has been established to support and inspire artistic practice and cultural research within the municipality. The programme focuses on the intersection of contemporary culture and historical heritage in rural parishes, paying close attention to locally significant cultural artefacts, both tangible and intangible. By inviting professionals from the creative industries to engage with this heritage, the residency fosters new artistic creations while bringing professional art and cultural events to the region. Over the course of two years, participants will explore, research, and interact with the cultural landscape of the parish, highlighting the relevance of contemporary culture in everyday life for local residents.

Liep!ja Theatre Performance “Against Elections” in Collaboration with “Dead Centre” (Ireland)

Liep!ja Theatre will open its 2027/2028 season with the performance “Against Elections” (based on the same-title book by David Van Reybrouck) in collaboration with the Irish theatre company “Dead Centre”. Created in collaboration with the acclaimed Irish theatre company led by playwrights and directors Bush Moukarzel and Ben Kidd, the production promises to be a distinctive artistic experience for the Liep!ja Theatre ensemble, its creative and technical teams, and audiences alike. The project aims to spark dialogue on civic participation and the role of citizens in shaping politically and socially significant decisions, using theatre as a platform for reflection and engagement.

9 to 12 September 2027

Core Series of Discursive Events

“Agora

of Values”. Immersive Art Symposium and Exhibition

“Extended

Realities”

The New Media Culture Centre RIX-C, in partnership with the Immersive Art Space (IASpace) at Zurich University of the Arts, presents an ambitious extended reality (XR) art programme. Audiences are invited to explore how immersive technologies reshape art into a fully spatial experience – spanning virtual reality, artificial intelligence and the spatial visualisation of scientific data – where reality is not just represented but directly encountered.

The programme will operate as an “Open Lab”, bringing artists, scientists and technology innovators into active dialogue with the public. Together, they will address environmental and climate realities, AI technologies and cosmic perspectives, encouraging audiences to sense, reflect and reconsider their relationship with the world.

The conceptual foundation of the programme grows out of RIX-C’s long-term practice – from the landmark Acoustic Space Lab symposium at the Irbene radio telescope 25 years ago to the recent immersive artwork Deep Sensing, where environmental data interacts with cosmic signals to expand our understanding of reality. At its core are the experimental, interactive approaches developed by the Swiss Immersive Art Space, in which visitors become active participants, testing the limits of perception through their senses and physical presence.

South Kurzeme Municipality Conference “Kurzeme Culture Forum”

The Kurzeme Culture Forum is an annual get-together for professionals, artists, students and others from the cultural sector in the state, local government, private and non-governmental sectors. The idea is to promote cultural growth – ongoing development and cooperation between different sectors, creating a better cultural environment and new added value. The forum will feature experts from various fields with inspiring stories and lectures, as well as discussions on the interaction between culture and education, industry trends and their impact on everyday life.

Contemporary Art Festival “Liep!ja Art Forum 2027”

Liep!ja Art Forum 2027 is set to become one of the city’s key contemporary art highlights. The programme examines connections between humans and non-humans through an interdisciplinary mix of sound art, visual art, contemporary dance, technology and new scientific perspectives. Its mission is to offer fresh, colourful experiences that reflect the richness of contemporary artistic expression; to collaborate with leading artists from around the world; and to celebrate the ideas that connect Liep!ja with the wider European cultural landscape. It’s an invitation to live proudly and confidently in the rhythm of the “Great Amber” – and to open ourselves to new perspectives.

Media Art and Technology Festival “Update”

The project aims to establish an educational programme offering participants a broader international perspective in media art and technology. By engaging technology professionals and artists, the programme will create a public platform that enriches Liep!ja’s cultural scene with distinctive media and digital art experiences.

Three media art and technology festivals are planned for 2025, 2026, and 2027, each featuring a variety of workshops and masterclasses for both professionals and enthusiasts. Each festival will conclude with an exhibition showcasing the outcomes of the workshops alongside works by international artists.

Creative Workshops and Concert Series “Salmon Songs”

From 2025 to 2027, Kuld īga will host summer creative workshops bringing together artists, biologists, young people, specialists from various fields, and local residents. In 2027, visitors will be invited to enjoy a series of concerts along the Venta River, while “Bonfire Concerts” and “Story Evenings” are planned for the autumns of 2026 and 2027.

“Salmon Songs” is an interdisciplinary cultural and environmental project designed to raise awareness about salmon conservation and combat illegal fishing in Latvian rivers. The initiative blends music, educational activities, and community participation to engage both locals and visitors in protecting the natural environment.

From June to October 2026 and 2027

International Conference “Cultural Renovation”

Each autumn, Liep!ja will welcome cultural professionals, researchers, lecturers, and decisionmakers from Latvia and beyond to exchange experiences, discuss emerging trends, and explore solutions for cultural development. This international conference will serve as a platform for generating new ideas and fostering collaborative initiatives across the cultural sector.

The conference programme brings together lectures, discussions, practical workshops, insights from international partners and artistic contributions, offering a wider perspective on cultural processes and their influence on society. It serves as a space for brainstorming, where dialogue generates ideas that spark new international partnerships and support the sustainable development of the cultural sector.

The aim is to encourage the sharing of knowledge, experience and innovative approaches in culture, positioning Liep!ja as a key hub for professional debate in the Baltic region.

Lifelong Learning Programme

Liep!ja 2027, in cooperation with RTU Liep!ja Academy, is developing a lifelong learning programme designed to support cultural professionals from the Land of (un)rest in strengthening their skills and navigating a rapidly evolving cultural landscape. Rooted in the real needs of the sector, the programme offers practical knowledge and tools for everyday work, while contributing to the long-term cultural development of Liep!ja, South Kurzeme and the Kuldīga region.

Throughout the programme, professionals from Latvia and across Europe will share experience and expertise in areas such as cooperation-building, project management, accessibility, digital skills and other key competencies in cultural practice. The learning process will foster an open environment for professional growth, the refinement of working methods and the formation of new partnerships. The aim of the programme is to ensure accessible, practical and sustainable professional development for cultural workers, strengthen the region’s capacity to create high-quality cultural processes, and shape a shared cultural space of (un)rest Land.

Programme “Genius loci”

The project explores how the spirit of place – genius loci – is formed, preserved and re-imagined in the towns of Kurzeme. Rooted in architectural heritage, cultivated landscapes and the knowledge embedded in traditional craftsmanship, this spirit shapes the distinctive identity of each town and lives on through local stories, materials and ways of care. Rather than treating heritage as a static value, the project approaches it as a living cultural process that connects past practices with contemporary ways of inhabiting historic environments.

The project will be realised through the following interconnected actions:

• an international restoration workshop for craftsmen, alongside practical learning sessions for residents focused on the sustainable care of historic buildings and their structural elements;

• international forums dedicated to gardens in historical environments (2026) and to the diversity of woodworking traditions worldwide (2027);

• the contemporary circus performance “Sawdust Symphony”, created with the participation of Austrian and German artists;

• a lecture series on historical gardens, appropriate plant species and their care;

• the creation of a curated map of Kuld īga’s Old Town gardens, including thematic courtyards, alongside the realisation of five traditional garden examples that invite visitors to experience the intimate atmosphere of historic inner spaces;

• a thematic glass design art exhibition installed within the gardens of Kuld īga’s Old Town.

Skills Exchange Platform “Skill Market”

The “Skill Market” is structured around three strands:

• “Master in Class” – focused training sessions led by master craftsmen;

• “Skills Laboratory” – open to public practical workshops, offering opportunities to learn new skills or deepen existing ones, whether for personal interest or professional growth;

• (Co-)workshop – an environment for creative cross-sector exchange, bringing together different crafts and industries to generate new ideas, products and practices, with shared experiences during the Līva Village Festival.

The aim of the project is to establish a lasting skills exchange platform that not only safeguards traditional crafts but also enables their renewal and relevance in the 21st century, creating new opportunities for craftsmen and fosters a public understanding of craft as a living cultural practice.

Guest Lectures, Workshops and Exhibition “Craft + Design”

Students of Liep!ja Music, Art and Design High School, working alongside craftsmen, mentors and international guest lecturers, will explore the transformation of traditional materials into contemporary design solutions. Through experimentation and prototype development, the project places an emphasis on sustainability and responsible material circulation. The programme includes public guest lectures, collaborative creative work, a final exhibition in Liep!ja and a travelling exhibition abroad, extending the project’s reach beyond the region. The aim of the project is to support the continuity of traditional craft skills by integrating them into contemporary design practice, while encouraging sustainable, thoughtful and balanced design approaches that strengthen cultural heritage and foster cooperation within the Liep!ja region.

Art Installations on the &lande River Trail

Along the scenic banks of the Ālande River, site-specific artworks unfold as quiet markers of natural change, inviting visitors to sense how past, present and future intersect within the coastal landscape. These works encourage us to see nature not merely as a setting, but as a counterpart – a companion, collaborator and bearer of memory.

Ieva Viese’s sculptural forms trace the echoes of fossil life as they surface within contemporary culture, while Krista Dintere’s interactive sound installation invites participation in interspecies cooperation, suggesting the possibility of restoring what has been diminished or lost. Rihards V ī tols’ augmented reality work sketches post-biological evolutionary scenarios, imagining new ecosystems shaped by the interaction of technology and nature.

Together, the artists propose an exploration of ecological transformation through movement, attentive observation and the search for balance. The trail becomes a space for reflection, drawing inspiration from the diversity of the natural world and the complex relationship between humanity and its environment.

The aim of the project is to deepen understanding of the reciprocal influence between humans and nature by creating a place where art acts as a bridge between science, culture and personal experience within the landscape.

Get Involved!

Everyone is invited to take part and help shape Liep!ja as the European Capital of Culture in 2027. Young people can join a dedicated youth programme and play an active role in creating and organising events for their peers. Those interested in strengthening cultural life in their neighbourhoods are welcome to engage through the “Neighbourliness” community programme, which supports locally driven initiatives. There is also the opportunity to contribute as a volunteer, becoming part of a wide range of projects and events across the city and region. Choose the path that suits you best and be part of shaping Liep!ja’s cultural future!

Liep!ja –Beyond Expectations!

Liep!ja, the third largest city in Latvia and the tenth largest in the Baltic States, is home to approximately 70,000 residents who call it their workplace and place of study. Nestled between the Baltic Sea and Lake Liep!ja, the city is linked by the Trade Canal. Owning a legacy of an industrial powerhouse and a once-restricted military zone, Liep!ja has undergone a stunning transformation into a premier destination for living, leisure, and enterprise. Today, it became a modern city with a global outlook, but at the same time retaining a charm and ease of a small seaside town. The city’s pulse is driven by a heritage of culture, arts, and athletics. Throughout the year, Liep!ja’s calendar is alive with energy for all age, offering everything from local galleries to world-class stage performances, from the elegance of classical symphonies to the electricity of massive beach festivals, or the thrill of local sports competitions mixed with the elite European sports championship.

Plan Your Destination Liep!ja and Enjoy It Firsthand –

Culture, Art, Freedom and Love!

Liep!ja has a rich legacy of culture, art and sports. All year-round you are offered a choice between the quiet grace of local galleries to the artistic performances of international icons, and from the classical music sounds to the salt-streaked energy of a coastal festival, from the heights of European championships to the intimacy of local sport, every passion finds its home here. With over 200 monthly events spanning all ages, interests and tastes, Liep!ja’s heart beats for all. Discover your next encounter at: kalendars.liepaja.lv/en

The Pride of Liep!ja and the Region – the Great Amber Concert Hall

At the epicentre of the Liep!ja’s creative (un)rest stands the radiant architectural gem – the Great Amber Concert Hall. This world-class venue is celebrated for its crystalline acoustics, which allow every subtle whisper of sound to resonate with breathtaking clarity. As the home of the Liep!ja Symphony Orchestra – the oldest in the Baltics – this glowing landmark invites you to experience the very pinnacle of musical brilliance.

A Popular Tourist Destination

Liep ! ja is a captivating coastal escape that enchants with a city centre brimming with architectural jewels and unique landmarks. Its crowning glory is the expansive beach, where the remarkably fine, white sand creates an atmosphere of pure magic. Though delightfully compact, the city provides everything required for a soulful getaway.

Incredibly Beautiful Art Nouveau Heritage

Liep!ja is a living gallery of Art Nouveau splendour, home to over 70 Art Nouveau buildings. These storied buildings are rich with the handiwork of master artisans, from ornate metalwork and hand-carved doors to decorative stairwells.

Pristine Nature

Liep!ja’s greatest treasure is its untouched wilderness. The unique lagoon-style Lake Liep!ja, born from the retreating Baltic Sea, creates a Natura 2000 sanctuary where rare water birds find their (un)rest amidst lush meadows. Linking the lake to the sea, the Trade Canal transforms from a summer yachting location into a winter wonderland of romantic lights.

Explore the 43-hectare Beberliņi Recreational Park in Karosta – a paradise for walks through the pines, with its 9 km walking trail. The Zirgu (Horse) Island is another wonderful location for walks stretching right into Lake Liep!ja. Or head toward the sprawling 50-hectare Seaside Park – one of Latvia’s largest planted parks. This coastal oasis is a popular hub for leisure, where winding trails and playgrounds meet football pitches and tennis courts in a perfect harmony of nature and activity.

The Ultimate Family Escape

Liep!ja is a top choice for family retreat, offering an exquisite blend the world’s finest, whitest Liep!ja beach sand, the refreshing swims, more than 50 km of scenic cycling paths, all enjoyable together. From the windy Karosta breakwaters to the joy of sundrenched playgrounds and tranquil lakeside walks, the city provides endless ways to recharge your batteries. Whether you are wandering through romantic city streets or exploring verdant recreation parks, Liep!ja ensures every family moment is etched in memory.

Stay in Our Modern Hotels!

One may enjoy Liep!ja’s hospitality within five-star promenade apartments and avant-garde art hotels or perhaps opt for our distinguished business-style suites and bespoke dwellings. From city guest houses to youth hostels and campsites, do ensure you secure your booking well in advance! Our ethos of hospitality is simple: find warmth within our walls so that you may step out into the wind! Seek your perfect repose in one of Liep!ja’s many hotels!

Liep!ja is easily accessible by land, air and sea. Alongside road and rail connections, the city has its own airport serving charter flights, while Palanga Airport, with regular commercial flights, is located approximately 70 km away. From Latvia’s capital R īga, Liep!ja can be reached comfortably by LUX Express coach services. Regular ferry connections link Liep!ja with Travemünde in Germany several times a week, and visitors arriving by yacht can moor directly in the city centre, in the Trade Canal.

Easy Access by All

Means of

Transport!

Charming Restaurants and Cafés by the Sea

Liep ! ja’s dining establishments and cafés are all perfectly curated to satisfy every conceivable palate and temperament. Within our bounds, you shall discover refined restaurants, gastro bars, and enchanting cafés alongside magnificent summer terraces perched directly by the sea. We cater most elegantly to all, from the gourmets and hedonists to those in a refined hurry. Indeed, the city even has a Michelin-listed restaurant “Mo”. Savour truly unforgettable meals within Liep ! ja’s most delightful cafés and restaurants!

South Kurzeme Region

South Kurzeme Region lies in the very south of Latvia, where Rucava meets the Lithuanian border and Latvia begins. The administrative centre, Grobiņa, is the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in Latvia mentioned in written historical sources.

The region was established in 2021 through the consolidation of eight neighbouring municipalities as part of Latvia’s administrative–territorial reform. It is the largest municipality in Latvia by area, covering 3,590.56 km ,, and is home to around 33,000 residents.

Kuldīga Region

Kuld īga Region is a pearl in the heart of Kurzeme, home to more than 27,000 people who value its romantic atmosphere, rich historical heritage and the chance to step away from the pace of big-city life.

By cherishing its heritage, nurturing strong and active communities, and supporting creative entrepreneurs and initiative-driven people, Kuld īga has developed into a dynamic region where business, tourism and the creative industries flourish.

The region is proud to host two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the Old Town of Kuld īga and the Suiti cultural space in Alsunga.

How to Get to Liep!ja?

We are happy to help you plan your journey!

Foundation “Nodibinā jums Liep ā ja 2027” Dārza iela 4/8, 2nd floor Liep ā ja, Latvia, LV-3401 birojs@liepaja2027.lv +371 20 272 277

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