The Latvian community in Luxembourg celebrates Latvia's National Day with a meaningful and heartfelt program.

On Saturday, 22 November, a festive event dedicated to the 107th anniversary of the Proclamation of the Republic of Latvia took place in Mertert, Luxembourg. It was organised by the association “Luxembourg - Latvia” under the leadership of Ieva Freija Peccati. The event of the Latvian diaspora in Luxembourg brought together a large Latvian community, including guests from nearby Germany and Belgium. The event was also attended by the Latvian Ambassador to the Kingdom of Belgium and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg Aiga Liepiņa, as well as Latvia’s Honorary Consul in Luxembourg Henri Diederich.

In her address to the audience, Ambassador Aiga Liepiņa expressed appreciation for the contribution of the Latvian diaspora in Luxembourg, inspiring and strengthening Latvia in so many important fields: “Thank you for giving your time, strength, talent, knowledge, and financial resources so that our nation and state may endure and grow.”

The festive programme was created by Latvian amateur performance groups of different generations in Luxembourg and pupils of the European School, offering a diverse two-hour programme of performances. The musical part traditionally featured the mixed choir “Meluzīna” (Melusine) and the post-folk group “Rudzurika” (Rye slice). Meanwhile, the children’s folklore group “Mazās dzērves” (Little Cranes) and the European School students’ performances, together with the greeting of award recipients, created an especially warm and heartfelt festive atmosphere.

Many attendees, especially foreigners, noted that they were impressed by how strong and creative an event such a relatively small Latvian community was able to organise.

Several recognitions were presented during the celebration: on behalf of the European Latvian Association, I. Freija Peccati, together with Ambassador A. Liepiņa, honoured Aiga Ožehovska for her contribution to preparing diaspora children’s folklore groups for participation in the 13th Latvian School Youth Song and Dance Festival. Meanwhile, the “Mārtiņa balva” (Martin’s Award), annually presented by the association for contributions to preserving Latvian identity in Luxembourg, was awarded this year to Inguna Miluna and her spouse.

After the formal part of the event, guests were brought to the dance floor by the wonderful “Eslingenas Orķestris” (Esslingen Orchestra).

Photo: Māris Briedis