2026 Latvian Song & Dance Festival in Grand Rapids, MI

Jul 10
1 min read

I’ve just returned from the 2026 Latvian Song and Dance Festival, held July 1–5 in Grand Rapids, Michigan — an extraordinary gathering that brings together up to 4,000 Latvians from across North America and Europe. This beloved celebration of Latvian heritage, held every two years, rotates locations much like the Olympics, with each festival awarding hosting rights to the next city. When Michigan was selected for 2026, I knew I had to be part of it.

Being half‑Latvian comes with its own challenges. I didn’t grow up speaking the language, I missed many cultural traditions, and I’ve often felt slightly outside the inner circle of the community. But with creativity, persistence, and a willingness to show up, I’ve found meaningful ways to participate and connect — even from those outer rings.

This year was my most involved festival yet. I hosted a booth in the Tirdziņš (the festival vendor fair), took part in the Writers’ Event with a table featuring my two books, and exhibited two plein air oil paintings in the Latvian Art Exhibition. Each experience gave me a new way to contribute, share my work, and feel more deeply connected to the culture I’m proud to carry.