Alongside the songs and dances, guests also took part in other traditional Midsummer (Jāņi) customs – wreath weaving, decorating with leafy branches, cheese making, and joyful games for children.
Traditions That Unite – Kurbads Celebrates the Summer Solstice

On the afternoon of June 20th, as the sun traced its brightest arc across the sky, the Kurbads courtyard transformed into a true summer solstice celebration – our employees with their children, oak leaf wreaths, the scent of cheese, greenery, and songs all came together in one vibrant and heartfelt moment.
Inga, a proud Vidzeme native from Cēsis, has been a passionate folk dancer since 2006. A graduate of the Traditional Culture and Latvian Folklore program at the Latvian Academy of Culture, she is now one of the leading voices of the new generation in the folklore community.
Under her guidance, Dandari did more than sing and dance — they created a true ritual space, where everyone, from children to adults, became part of the celebration’s deep-rooted energy and timeless mystery.
The beautiful celebration was enriched by a special moment – the two-year anniversary of Kurbads car transporter #114, whose cabin features the image of legendary Latvian adventurer Aleksandrs Laime.
The “godfather” of the #114 truck, chosen during the company's Midsummer kickoff event in 2023, is the design’s author – artist Alfreds Paulausks.
The evening reached its emotional peak with the lighting of the bonfire and a symbolic beacon – the pūdele, whose flame makes way for a new solar cycle and a renewed light of intention. As the fire’s glow rose into the sky, a heartfelt silence brought everyone together – warm, sincere, and deeply moving.
The celebration concluded with a best festive outfit contest.
Among the ladies, Lāsma and her daughter from Lantes Manor were crowned the most dazzling, while in the men’s category, Mārtiņš from the Kurbads marketing team took the prize.
There were also traditional sporting activities – Artis from Kurbads Detailing was recognized as the most accurate archer, and Juris from the Kurbads Service team proved strongest in the axe-throwing challenge.
LĪGO!