Smiltene Crowned as the cultural Pearl of the Baltic Sea Region for 2025
This year, the Latvian town of Smiltene has been awarded the prestigious title of Cultural Pearl of the Baltic Sea Region for 2025. The declaration, made by an international jury, highlights Smiltene’s commitment to fostering cultural and social sustainability through innovative plans and community-driven initiatives.the town joins a distinguished list of municipalities, including Helsingborg (Sweden), Peipsiääre (Estonia), Alytus district (Lithuania), Płock (Poland), and Kaskinen-Kaskö (Finland), all recognized for their transformative cultural visions [[1]].
The smiltene Cultural center played a pivotal role in securing this honor. Its leader, Evija Dzvinko, expressed her elation, stating, “We had heard about Rūjiena—a pearl of culture—and this project interested us. As our city is as beautiful as a pearl and has rich traditions, we decided, why not?” Dzvinko’s enthusiasm reflects the town’s pride in its cultural heritage and its readiness to embrace new opportunities for growth [[3]].
What Does the Title Mean?
Table of Contents
- Smiltene’s Jāņkalns Stage Revival: A Community-Driven Renaissance
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- A Community Takes Charge
- A Multifaceted Revival
- A Year-Round Cultural Hub
- key Highlights of the Jāņkalns Stage Revival
- A Symbol of Unity
- A Visual Journey
- Key Highlights of the Initiative
- Why This Matters
- Key Features of the ”Pearl of Culture” Initiative
- examples of Community-Driven Activities
- Impact on the Community
- Looking Ahead
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The Cultural Pearl title is not merely a recognition of past achievements but a forward-looking accolade. According to Lelde Ābele, project manager of the Vidzeme Planning Region, the award is granted to municipalities that demonstrate exceptional cultural and social sustainability plans. “This title is not awarded for what has already been done, but for what is planned during the title year. The goal is to use cultural processes to create a more socially enduring community, one that can unite and withstand challenges in times of crisis,” Ābele explained [[2]].
The selection process was rigorous, with an international jury of experts in social resilience, urban planning, and culture evaluating the proposals. The initiative itself was born out of the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, which highlighted the need to strengthen community ties. “During Covid, people were isolated, they moved away from cultural processes and stopped attending cultural activities. Through these community-strengthening activities, we aim to bring back cultural consumers and inspire new ideas,” Ābele added.
A Legacy of Cultural Excellence
Smiltene follows in the footsteps of Rūjiena, another Latvian town that held the Cultural Pearl title in 2024. Rūjiena’s year-long party included a variety of activities, from cleanup drives to intergenerational events and exhibitions. “Rūjiena started its year by implementing a cleanup on Rīgas Street 8, which became a vibrant meeting place.They also organized intergenerational activities, quizzes, and exhibitions that were well-attended,” Ābele shared. These initiatives not only brought the community together but also left a lasting impact, with local representatives expressing a desire to continue fostering intergenerational cooperation.
What’s Next for Smiltene?
As Smiltene embarks on its Cultural Pearl journey, the town is poised to implement its aspiring cultural and resilience action plan. The focus will be on creating a socially sustainable community that thrives even in challenging times. with its rich traditions and vibrant cultural scene, Smiltene is well-equipped to inspire and unite its residents while showcasing its unique identity on the Baltic Sea stage.
| Key Highlights | Details |
|———————|————-|
| Title Awarded | Cultural Pearl of the Baltic Sea Region 2025 |
| Recipient | Smiltene, latvia |
| Selection Criteria | Exceptional cultural and social sustainability plans |
| Previous Title Holder | Rūjiena, Latvia (2024) |
| Goal | Strengthen community ties and foster social resilience |
Smiltene’s recognition as a Cultural Pearl is a testament to its dedication to cultural innovation and community resilience. As the town prepares to shine in 2025, it invites residents and visitors alike to join in celebrating its rich heritage and shining future.
What cultural initiatives would you like to see in Smiltene during its title year? Share your thoughts and ideas below!
Smiltene’s Jāņkalns Stage Revival: A Community-Driven Renaissance
The historic Jāņkalns stage in Smiltene, once a bustling hub for cultural and recreational activities, is set to reclaim its former glory thanks to the unwavering efforts of the local community.After years of neglect, the stage, which had fallen into disrepair, is now the focal point of a grassroots restoration project driven by the residents themselves.
A Community Takes Charge
The revival of the Jāņkalns stage began with a simple yet powerful idea: involving the people of Smiltene in shaping the future of their city.As Dzvinko, a key figure in the initiative, explained, “The project itself is based on the involvement of the citizens, and we will do that. We have the restoration of the Jāņkalns stage, where the work has already started, the first cleaning has taken place.”
The project gained momentum after a survey conducted during a city festival revealed that the stage held notable sentimental value for the residents. “It all started with the fact that we conducted a survey during the city festival, what the residents want to see in the city, and from this survey it emerged that the Jāņkalns stage is vrey critically important to people,” Dzvinko shared.
Despite the local government’s ambitious plans for the stage, budget constraints delayed its restoration. This setback, however, sparked a wave of community activism. “We have a very active council of residents of Smiltene, who came up with their own initiative,” dzvinko noted. Over 80 residents participated in the first cleanup, a testament to the stage’s importance to the community.
A Multifaceted Revival
The restoration of the Jāņkalns stage is just one aspect of a broader initiative aimed at fostering community spirit and environmental awareness. The project also focuses on engaging young people and promoting sustainable living.
- Youth Involvement: A collaborative mural project will allow young residents to leave their mark on the city.
- Environmental Focus: The initiative emphasizes ecological and green living,aligning with global sustainability goals.
A Year-Round Cultural Hub
Once restored,the Jāņkalns stage is expected to become a vibrant cultural center,hosting events throughout the year. “A lot of different events will take place here throughout the year,” Dzvinko said. The calendar will kick off with a grand opening on June 1, followed by a series of summer events.
The stage will also play a central role in celebrating Latvia’s Independence Day on November 18, with a unique campaign titled “Warm up the sand.” This initiative will invite residents to knit gloves and scarves, symbolizing warmth and unity.
key Highlights of the Jāņkalns Stage Revival
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Community Involvement | Over 80 residents participated in the first cleanup. |
| Youth Engagement | Collaborative mural project to involve young people. |
| Environmental Focus | Emphasis on ecological and green living practices. |
| Upcoming Events | Opening ceremony on June 1, summer events, and November 18 celebrations. |
A Symbol of Unity
The Jāņkalns stage has become more than just a physical structure; it is a symbol of community resilience and collaboration. As Dzvinko aptly put it,”The people of Smiltene have chosen the stage of Jāņkalns as a unifying motive for uniting their community.”
This grassroots effort not only preserves a piece of Smiltene’s history but also paves the way for a brighter,more connected future.Photo: Jāņkalns stage in Smiltene by Gunta Matisone/Latvijas Radio
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Stay updated on community-driven projects like this by following Latvijas Radio for more inspiring stories.Revitalizing Community Spirit: The “Pearl of Culture of the Baltic Sea Region” Initiative
In the heart of the Baltic Sea region, a unique cultural initiative is weaving together creativity, community, and collaboration. The Pearl of Culture of the Baltic Sea Region project is not just about organizing events—it’s about empowering residents to take the lead in shaping their cultural landscape. From art exhibitions to creative picnics, this initiative is redefining how communities engage with culture.
“We are open to new ideas, so that such a collaboration can really happen,” says a spokesperson for the project. The initiative encourages locals to bring their own ideas to the table, whether it’s a creative picnic, an art exhibition, or even a path of light. This participatory approach ensures that the cultural center becomes a true reflection of the community’s spirit and creativity.
One of the standout features of the project is its focus on sustainability and resourcefulness. For instance, the team hopes to restore the stage of Jāņkalns with the help of residents, using donated materials and collective effort. “It would be like a basis for young people’s ideas,” the spokesperson explains. “The project is critically important as it gives the locals such a push that we can.”
To support these grassroots efforts, the Pearl of Culture of the Baltic Sea Region provides funding of up to 5,000 euros. While this amount may seem modest for larger projects, it serves as a crucial starting point for young innovators and community-driven initiatives.The next call for applications is set to be announced in the spring, offering another opportunity for residents to bring their ideas to life.
A Visual Journey
The project’s impact is beautifully captured in a photograph by Gunta Matisone of Latvijas Radio. The image, showcasing the vibrant energy of the initiative, serves as a testament to the power of community-driven cultural projects.
!Photo: Gunta Matisone/Latvijas Radio
Key Highlights of the Initiative
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Funding | Up to 5,000 euros for community-driven projects |
| Focus | Empowering residents to lead cultural initiatives |
| Upcoming Opportunity | Next call for applications to be announced in spring |
| Community Projects | Creative picnics, art exhibitions, restoration of Jāņkalns stage |
Why This Matters
The Pearl of Culture of the Baltic Sea Region is more than just a cultural project—it’s a movement. By fostering collaboration and creativity, it not only enriches the local cultural scene but also strengthens community bonds. As the initiative continues to grow, it serves as a shining example of how culture can be a powerful tool for social change.
For those inspired to get involved, keep an eye out for the spring announcement. Whether you’re an artist, a dreamer, or simply someone who wants to make a difference, this is your chance to contribute to something truly special.
What ideas would you bring to the table? Share your thoughts and join the conversation about the future of community-driven culture.
Er it’s a mural project, a storytelling festival, or a community garden. This approach ensures that the cultural activities reflect the unique identity and aspirations of the community.
Key Features of the ”Pearl of Culture” Initiative
| Feature | Description |
|————————–|———————————————————————————————|
| Community-Led Projects | Residents propose and lead cultural initiatives, fostering ownership and creativity. |
| Interdisciplinary Events | A mix of art, music, theater, and environmental activities to engage diverse interests. |
| Sustainability Focus | Emphasis on eco-amiable practices and green living, aligning with global sustainability goals. |
| Year-Round Engagement | Events and activities planned throughout the year to maintain momentum and participation.|
examples of Community-Driven Activities
- Creative Picnics: Residents gather in public spaces to share food, art, and ideas, fostering a sense of togetherness.
- Interactive Art Installations: Collaborative projects where locals contribute to large-scale artworks displayed in the city.
- Storytelling Festivals: Events where community members share personal stories, preserving local history and traditions.
- Eco-Workshops: Hands-on sessions teaching sustainable practices, such as composting and upcycling.
Impact on the Community
The “Pearl of culture” initiative has already begun to transform the cultural landscape of participating towns. By involving residents in every step of the process, the project has:
– strengthened community bonds through shared creative experiences.
– Empowered individuals to take an active role in shaping their cultural surroundings.
– Increased awareness of sustainability and environmental stewardship.
– Created a platform for diverse voices and talents to be heard and celebrated.
Looking Ahead
as the initiative continues to grow, organizers hope to expand its reach to more towns in the Baltic Sea region. The ultimate goal is to create a network of culturally vibrant communities that inspire and learn from one another.
“This is not just about one-time events,” says a project coordinator. “It’s about building a lasting culture of creativity, collaboration, and resilience.”
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for more facts on the “Pearl of Culture of the Baltic Sea Region” initiative, visit balticculturepearl.eu.
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Combining Efforts: Smiltene’s Jāņkalns Stage and the “Pearl of Culture” Initiative
the revival of Smiltene’s Jāņkalns stage and the broader ”Pearl of Culture” initiative share a common thread: the power of community-driven action. Both projects highlight how grassroots efforts can breathe new life into cultural spaces and foster a sense of belonging.
As smiltene prepares to shine as a Cultural Pearl in 2025, the Jāņkalns stage stands as a symbol of what can be achieved when residents come together with a shared vision.Similarly, the “Pearl of Culture” initiative demonstrates how empowering communities can lead to innovative and sustainable cultural development.
What cultural initiatives would you like to see in your community? Share your ideas and join the movement to create vibrant, resilient cultural spaces!
