Jelgava, Latvia is preparing to host its annual International ice Sculpture Festival February 7-8, an event that draws artists and visitors from across Europe and beyond. In anticipation of large crowds,local authorities have issued a temporary ban on accessing the ice on the Drika and Lielupe rivers to ensure public safety,notably as attendees seek shortcuts to parking areas. The festival, featuring the work of 20 sculptors from 12 countries, will transform the city with ice creations centered around this year’s theme, “The Power of Illusion.”
Authorities in Jelgava, Latvia, have issued a temporary ban on accessing the ice on the Drika and Lielupe rivers during the city’s annual Ice Sculpture Festival, scheduled for February 7 and 8. The measure, prompted by guidance from the State Police, aims to ensure the safety of festival attendees.
The State Police, after assessing the event’s location, timing, and potential risks, requested the ban to prevent large numbers of people from crossing the frozen rivers to reach parking areas in Pārlielupe. Officials expressed concern that, based on past experience, many festival-goers might attempt this shortcut, creating a significant safety hazard.
The order prohibits access to the ice on the Lielupe and Drika rivers between the railway bridge and Jelgava Castle throughout the duration of the festival. Ice conditions are a primary concern, particularly with potentially large crowds attempting to traverse the waterways.
Jelgava Municipal Police will enforce the ban, with potential penalties including warnings or fines of up to 20 penalty units, equivalent to 100 euros. The development highlights the city’s commitment to public safety during a popular cultural event.
This year’s International Ice Sculpture Festival will also feature a free access zone. The festival will showcase the work of 20 sculptors from 12 countries – Argentina, Indonesia, Poland, Mongolia, the Netherlands, Ukraine, Spain, Finland, Germany, Estonia, Lithuania, and Latvia – who were selected following a preliminary sketch competition that received over 40 submissions.
The theme of this year’s competition is “The Power of Illusion,” challenging artists to explore the boundaries between reality and perception. Sculptors will interpret the theme through their creations, with organizers promising displays that examine the relationship between humans and technology, the illusions created by nature, and diverse perspectives on beauty and happiness.
Festival attendees will have the opportunity to participate in interactive ice photosculptures, including scenes depicting characters from fairy tales and iconic circus acts. These installations will allow visitors to pose as part of the artwork, creating memorable experiences.
The main festival areas will be located at Pasta Island, the open-air concert hall “Mitava,” and a skating rink. Jānis Čakste Boulevard, previously a paid area, will be open to the public this year, offering ice photosculptures, attractions, a carousel, and a “hospitality zone” with food, drinks, and crafts. A laser show will be held throughout the festival grounds as darkness falls.
The festival will be open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on both February 7 and 8. Pasta Island’s public skating rink will host ice games, including checkers, air hockey, and dominoes, while a smaller ice slide will entertain younger visitors.
The open-air concert hall “Mitava” will feature puppet shows, and Pasta Island will host science shows and ice sculpting demonstrations. Performances by illusionists will also add to the festival atmosphere.
The ice sculpture competition awards ceremony and festival opening will take place on February 7 at the “Mitava” concert hall, followed by performances from the musical group “Vintage” and a special guest appearance by “Instrumenti.” On February 8, the evening program will begin with a performance by the Jelgava ensemble “Tandem in Three,” followed by Normunds Rutulis with the Riga Famous Orchestra, and conclude with a performance by the ethnomusic group “Tautumeitas.”
