In my homeland Latvia, the midsummer solstice Līgo celebrates with dances and songs on June 23rd and 24th. The women adorn themselves with wreaths of flowers but the men with oak wreaths. Campfires lights up everywhere and Līgo songs ring out.

Translated from Latvian, “Līgo” means to swing or sway. At the midsummer time, nature and the whole universe resonates with people. It is a magical time; there are many rituals and traditions that predict the future and can bring people new strength, as well as good harvest, happiness and health.

This year I celebrated the Līgofest as part of my dance class in Volkspark Rehberge. We sang Latvian Līgo songs and danced wildly. According to the Latvian tradition, we ate home-made caraway cheese and drunk beer.

All summerlong until the end of September, every Saturday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., Dancing in the nature takes place in the Volkspark Rehberge. Everyone is welcome!

The dance course is part of the Sport im Park project and is free of charge.