Museum Night 2026 in the Cēsis region is set to be a sprawling cultural celebration, with events beginning at 19:00 and continuing until the early hours of the morning. This annual tradition, known locally as Muzeju nakts Cēsīs, will see museums, artisan workshops, and historic castles across the municipality open their doors for a night of concerts, theatrical performances, and interactive history.
While most activities are free of charge, some specialized workshops and performances require a small entry fee. Visitors are encouraged to plan their routes in advance to make the most of the diverse offerings in Cēsis city and the surrounding areas of Amata, Līgatne, Pārgauja, and Priekuļi.
Evening Highlights in Cēsis City Centre
The heart of the festivities will be the Cēsis Castle complex. From 19:00 to 23:00, the Cēsis Museum (Pils laukums 9) will host history and interior exhibitions, including the special showcase “Meeting in the Hundredth of Nobility.” Families can participate in an orientation game throughout the museum’s halls.
Concert Schedule at Castle Square:
* 19:00: “How Colours Learned to Play Musical Instruments” – A concert performance specifically designed for families with children.
* 20:00: Performance by the saxophone quartet “n(ex)t move.”
* 21:00: “Chic. Charm. France.” – A program of French music featuring the duo “Mediante” and guitarist Jānis Rolmanis.
Nearby, the Cēsis Exhibition House (Pils laukums 3) will display international art from Latvia and Estonia. Visitors can join the “BAURIS” association for creative workshops involving traditional bone-working techniques.
Archaeology and Heritage in Amata and Līgatne
For those looking to explore beyond the city, the Āraiši Lake Castle Archaeological Park offers a unique atmosphere. At 18:00, the Cēsis Theatre will perform “Racēji” (The Diggers) in the medieval ruins, a play based on the diaries of archaeologist Jānis Apals (Entry: €5.00). The permanent exhibition at the visitor centre remains free throughout the night.
In Līgatne, the focus shifts to industrial and woodworking heritage:
* Vienkoči Park Woodworking Museum: Open 19:00–23:00. Features a “Nature Jewelry” workshop (€3.00) and a tree recognition test. The museum is free, while park trails follow standard pricing.
* Līgatne Culture House: From 19:00 to 01:00, enjoy poetry readings and stories about the historic paper factory. A creative workshop for printing with ancient factory moulds is available for €7.00.
* Paper Factory Workers’ Apartment: View short films about the authentic lives of factory families from 18:00 to 21:00.
Literary History and Castles in Priekuļi and Pārgauja
Literary enthusiasts should head to the Eduards Veidenbaums Museum “Kalāči” in Priekuļi. From 19:00 to 23:30, the museum will host talks with author Arno Jundze and concerts by the musician Vilkapuķe. Meanwhile, at “Leukādijas,” the home of Edvards Treimanis-Zvārgulis, visitors can celebrate the writer’s 160th anniversary with open-air poetry readings.
In Pārgauja, Lielstraupe Castle will host “Ancient Money Games” from 18:00 to 21:00, followed by the Lielstraupe Film Festival “Šausme” at 20:00, which is free for all attendees.
Practical Information for Visitors
- Date & Time: Museum Night 2026 takes place from 19:00 onwards. Some locations, like the Āraiši Windmill, stay open until 01:00.
- Costs: Most museum entries and concerts are free. Notable exceptions include the Āraiši theatre play (€5.00), Skujene museum donation (suggested €10.00), and specific craft workshops (€3.00–€7.00).
- Transport: As events are spread across the municipality, private transport or local taxis are recommended for moving between Cēsis, Līgatne, and Āraiši.
Source: Cēsu novada pašvaldība
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