FestRider Photo Blog

Fire of Ligo: Latvian Heritage with Siberian Hospitality

Bobrovka (Omsk Region)
Full Story: 36 photosQuick Impression: 15 photos
The festival takes its name from the word “Ligo” found in the refrains of traditional Latvian songs
On a cozy meadow, the grass is mowed and huge bonfires are stacked
With the last rays of sunlight, you can capture the most beautiful photos wearing wreaths
At 9 PM, the program begins
This is the “Russian Soul” ensemble from Yekaterininskoye, about 50 km from Bobrovka
It was believed that herbs gathered before this day possessed special powers
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
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
This was how feelings were tested: a couple that doesn’t let go of each other’s hands will have a lasting bond
Guests enjoy the night, while the organizers still have one more ritual to perform at dawn
After midnight, the bonfires keep warding off evil spirits to protect the harvest

Continuing with the Theme

With the fire going strong, the dish will be ready in just a few minutes90 shots

Red Hill: Heralding the Arrival of Summer

Yalutorovsk (Tyumen Region)

And in the meantime, there’s time for a photo session — the kind you can only get at Winter Farewell!132 shots

Say Goodbye to Winter, Say Hello to Pancakes

Omsk, Krutaya Gorka Neighbourhood

The intricate patterns on the costumes add a touch of magic to every movement84 shots

Nowruz: Calling Spring with Tradition and Creativity

Odesskoye (Omsk Region)

…so they’re ready to answer any questions — especially about the great bell from 1904126 shots

Big Bells Return to the Small Homeland

Tyumen, Gilyovskaya Grove

This is how the first pumpkin festival in Poltavka will be remembered54 shots

Poltavka: a Pumpkin Style Hospitality

Poltavka (Omsk Region)

The organizers are fully ready an hour before the event starts102 shots

“Three Arrows”: Traditions That Shape the Future

Gilyovo (Tyumen Region)

All photo stories: 27