This summer, from 8 to 14 June, the unique cultural event “The Last Karosta Festival” will take place in Karosta for the eighth time. This year, the festival will once again offer a diverse and rich programme, bringing together art, music, theatre, and the local community.
During the festival, visitors will have the opportunity to experience an impressive vintage vehicle show, culminating on the evening of Saturday, 13 June, at Karosta Prison. The evening programme will feature a concert by Rihards Saule and a special retro ball, creating an authentic festive atmosphere.
An integral part of the festival is the creation of new artworks in the urban environment. This year, they will be created at 7 Lazaretes Street and in the area near the O. Kalpaks Bridge, continuing the development of Karosta as a creative and dynamic environment.
Bringing to life the future vision “Karosta Radosta 2027”, this year’s festival will place special emphasis on performing arts and performances, actively involving the local community. Throughout the week, British artist Dr Hugh Sillitoe will be working in Karosta, leading masterclasses in performance, experimental theatre, clowning, and mask theatre.
Sunday at Redans will be especially dedicated to families and young people. A Family Day will take place, offering a wide programme of activities:
the opening of the photo exhibition “Pastāvēs, kas pārmainīsies”, featuring works created as part of a specially organised creative competition that invited students from Liepāja schools to take part:
- a kite-making workshop and kite flying;
- a salsa masterclass with a dancer from Colombia;
- a talent show and competition for young talents;
- performances featuring Dr Hugh Sillitoe and participants of the masterclasses;
- the Liepāja Puppet Theatre performance “Puksīšballe”.
On Sunday at Redans, visitors will also have the opportunity to see performances created during the masterclasses, revealing the diversity of the creative process and the contribution of the participants.
On 8 and 9 June, visitors will be able to attend the Liepāja Independent Theatre performance “The Ghost of Karosta Prison” at Karosta Prison, offering a unique theatre experience shaped by the character of the venue.
The festival will conclude with an outstanding musical event at the Karosta Arsenal — a concert by the Vilnius University Choir “GAUDEAMUS”.
The concert will feature conductor Rasa Gelgotiene, percussion conductor Ignas Garla, and soprano Gunta Gelgote.
“The Last Karosta Festival” continues to be an important cultural event that enriches the cultural life of Liepāja and strengthens the identity of Karosta, bringing together artists, residents, and visitors from Latvia and abroad.
“The Last Karosta Festival” is organised by the Karosta Rescue Society and supported by Liepāja Municipality.
Find more information and the festival programme here.