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For many Latvians living in the UK, the summer “Kapusvētki” (Cemetery Festivals) are the primary anchor for annual trips home. These unique cultural gatherings, particularly in the Latgale region, transcend simple religious rites; they serve as the most significant social reunions for families and local communities. To facilitate long-term travel planning for the diaspora, the Rēzekne municipality has released the comprehensive schedule for the 2026 season.
In the Latgale region, where Catholic traditions remain deeply rooted, these festivals involve a specific ritual: the cleaning and decoration of ancestral graves followed by a blessing from a priest. For those coordinating flights from London, Manchester, or Dublin, these dates are the fixed points around which summer holidays are built. The schedule covers dozens of parishes, reflecting the decentralized, rural nature of the Rēzekne district.
2026 Summer Schedule Highlights
The following table highlights key dates for major parishes within the Rēzekne municipality. Note that religious services (Holy Mass) typically occur one hour prior to the cemetery blessing.
| Cemetery Location | Date and Time (2026) |
|---|---|
| Pilcene Cemetery (Dricāni) | 20 June, 13:00 |
| Kolna Sloboda Cemetery (Sakstagals) | 6 June, 14:00 |
| Dzeņagola Cemetery (Dricāni) | 4 July, 12:00 |
| Bikava Cemetery (Gaigalava) | 25 July, 13:00 |
| Ozolmuiža Cemetery | 12 July, 11:30 |
| Lipuški Cemetery (Mākoņkalns) | 25 July, 14:30 |
| Ružina Cemetery (Silmala) | 20 June, 12:00 |
| Feimaņi Cemetery | 22 August, 13:00 |
| Nagļi New Cemetery | 29 August, 13:00 |
| Puša Cemetery | 29 August, 13:00 |
While this list represents the official municipal plan, travelers should account for the fact that local parish schedules can occasionally shift due to clergy availability. It is common practice for families to arrive several days early to ensure gravesites are meticulously weeded and planted with fresh flowers, a tradition that remains a point of pride for the Latgale community.
For those unable to attend in person, many local parishes now offer options for remote grave maintenance or candle lighting, though the physical gathering remains the heart of the tradition. Visitors are advised to check local parish notices or the Rēzekne municipality website closer to the date for any logistical updates regarding specific church services associated with these blessings.
Original reporting by: rezeknes_novads
Source: Rēzeknes novada pašvaldība
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