StarO Riga Light Show - 18 to 21 November 2010 - Riga Latvia

more information & map of light locations

The third Festival of light “Staro Rīga”, this year, will take place from 18 November to 21 November


Art is always developing and finding fresh forms of expression. Artists seek new ways to address audiences. The city is an optimal space for modern art; in an urban environment, works of art can speak to far more people than they do when displayed in more traditional settings. Contemporary art can reach diverse groups of people and cut across socio-economic boundaries, and it can transform the urban environment as well.

“Staro Rīga” (Beaming Riga) – is a festival of light lasting several days. The exhibits transform the cityscape by applying the latest in lighting and video technology to different objects in various locations. The works of art are buildings, squares, bridges, monuments, and other parts of the urban environment. These can be appreciated both up close and from afar, as part of the cityscape as a whole. These works of art in light are supplemented by performances, musical and theatrical events, and the interactive involvement of the audience.

The long-term concept of the festival is to make Riga glow during the darkest time of the year, creating a festive atmosphere not only for the residents of the city but also for everyone in Latvia and visitors to the country. The organizers hope to make the festival the main event of its type in northern Europe, something no one visiting the country would want to miss.

“Staro Rīga” not only illuminates the darkness of the approaching winter but also creates a celebratory mood in advance of Latvia’s Independence Day on November 18th. The events brighten this dark month and bring some light to people’s emotions, encourage the intertwining of cutting edge technology and art, and attempt to provoke thought about energy conservation and the uses we make of electricity.

The third Festival of light “Staro Rīga”, this year, will take place from 18 November to 21 November between 6:00 PM and 11 P.M. each night.