Fire of Ligo: Latvian Heritage with Siberian Hospitality
Bobrovka, a northern village of Omsk Region, was founded by Latvian settlers, and its residents still keep close ties with Latvia, revive traditional crafts, and preserve their ancestors’ customs.
Every year, on the night of June 23–24, they welcome guests for Ligo — a folk celebration of the summer solstice. Hundreds of visitors come from across the region and beyond: in 2024, guests arrived from nearby Martyushevo and Tara, from Novovarshavka in the south, and even from Moscow and Riga.
Festive Meadow
The organizers took care of everyone visiting Bobrovka for the first time
On a cozy meadow, the grass is mowed and huge bonfires are stacked
The festival takes its name from the word “Ligo” found in the refrains of traditional Latvian songs
With the last rays of sunlight, you can capture the most beautiful photos wearing wreaths
It was believed that herbs gathered before this day possessed special powers
Mosquitoes and midges don’t have a chance of ruining the fun for the kids!
Evening of Songs
At 9 PM, the program begins
On the decorated stage is the folk ensemble “Varavīksne” from Bobrovka itself
After every song, they exclaim: “Ligo!”
From Tara came the Estonian ensemble “Rõmus” to join the celebration
The distinctive group’s repertoire includes songs in Estonian and Russian
Photo sessions continue all across the meadow — now accompanied by choral singing
It’s time to start the first circle dance around the main bonfire
Its fire symbolizes the sun and light; it purifies and charges with energy
Ancestors believed that dancing on Ligo night made the earth fertile
At first, there aren’t many dancers, and the host even has to set the example
But very soon, the meadow fills with people repeating the simple dance movements
The pace is so fast that you have to hold on to the wreath on your head!
New performers take the stage
This is the “Russian Soul” ensemble from Yekaterininskoye, about 50 km from Bobrovka
They don’t belong to the Latvian culture, but they add bright colors to the celebration
Night of Bonfires
Meanwhile, the main bonfire is blazing up
Circle dances around it continue: in pairs, in threesomes, in both directions
At the host’s command, people switch places as the dance rules require
One by one, the largest bonfires ignite: they will burn until morning
Guests watch the flames for a long time…
…and take unique memorable shots
Folk games to music continue in front of the stage
Sleeping on this shortest night of the year is not allowed…
…but having fun is very much encouraged!
Jumping over the main bonfire begins, now that it’s no longer dangerous
People jump alone, in pairs, and as whole families
This was how feelings were tested: a couple that doesn’t let go of each other’s hands will have a lasting bond
After midnight, the bonfires keep warding off evil spirits to protect the harvest
Guests enjoy the night, while the organizers still have one more ritual to perform at dawn
Let’s wish them luck and thank them for preserving these traditions!
