A Mysterious Forest Will Open in Riga: Visitors Will Encounter Ancestor Spirits, Ancient Legends, and the Magic of Light

This year, the organizers have prepared a completely new route that will pass through the hills and forest corners of the museum. Guests can expect light, laser, sound, and video installations inspired by Latvian folk tales, beliefs, and ancient spells. The main theme of the event is Veļu laiks, or the time of ancestor spirits. In Latvian tradition, this is the autumn period when deceased relatives are remembered and the memory of previous generations is honored. In ancient times, it was believed that during this time, the souls of ancestors return to the world of the living. Special treats were prepared for them, and on long autumn evenings, legends and mysterious stories were told. The creators of the project decided to combine these ancient beliefs with modern technologies so that visitors could not only learn about traditions but also feel the atmosphere of a mystical world. According to the project's author, Marcis Gulbis, today, when familiar values are being questioned, it is especially important to turn to the wisdom of ancestors. It is in folk tales, beliefs, and views of the world that the organizers found inspiration for the new light journey. Gulbis invites visitors to dress for the weather, choose comfortable shoes, grab a flashlight, and set out to meet the autumn mysteries. The special atmosphere will be created not only by light effects but also by traditional Latvian dishes. In the museum tavern Priedes krogs, treats prepared based on ancient recipes will be offered: soups with unusual names, memorial porridge with mushroom or meat sauce, blood sausage with lingonberries, and stewed cabbage with ribs in honey sauce. For dessert, visitors can try apple mousse with rye flour and a traditional dish made from stewed grains with cinnamon. Hot drinks will help warm them up. The light trail has already gained public recognition. Previous projects by the organizers have repeatedly received awards from the Latvian Event Forum. In particular, the light show of 2025 was recognized as the best in its category. - Dates: from October 29 to November 8, 2026. - Time: daily from 18:00 to 21:00. - Place: Latvian Open-Air Ethnographic Museum. - Duration of the walk: approximately 60–90 minutes.