Writing festival in Latvia
Rakstivāls is a one-day writing festival held in the creative quarter ZEIT in Līgatne, located about 70 km from Latvia’s capital, Riga. It has been taking place since 2024 and is a unique event not only in the Baltics but across Northern Europe, dedicated to writing and its many forms.
Each year the festival brings together more than 500 visitors, while around 30 professionals from various fields deliver talks, lead discussions, and host workshops.
Rakstivāls features an international programme as well, bringing together writers and creative practitioners from different countries and cultural backgrounds. The festival strives to build on the international cooperation, strengthening Rakstivāls as a meeting place for cross-cultural exchange. In 2026, the festival will host Gabriele Labanauskaitė (Lithuania), Sandra de Vivies (France), and Lorena Briedis (Venezuela/Latvia).
Rakstivāls is based on the idea that writing is not only for creating art and literature, but also for release, reflection, joy, structure, and self-discovery – a way to think and feel on paper.
For any questions or partnership offers, feel free to reach out to us at:
rakstivals@gmail.com
August 9, 2026
August 9, 2026
What we do
Throughout the day, the programme includes speeches, creative writing sessions, and workshops for children, young adults, adults, and professionals. Rakstivāls stands out for its interdisciplinary approach – text and writing are combined with visual art, contemporary music, movement, performance art, psychology, and many other fields.
The festival also features a wide range of “writivities” – writing-inspired activities, creative exercises, and excursions designed to encourage imagination, reflection, and self-expression.
The festival concludes with a closing event of readings and music, celebrating writing and shared creative experience.
Venue
The creative quarter ZEIT offers outdoor stages, indoor halls, workshop spaces, accommodation, dining, and walking trails. Nearby, the Net Park adds a unique opportunity to experience movement above the ground.
The venue is accessible for visitors with reduced mobility, including wheelchair users. The environment provides a variety of spaces – from lively gathering areas to quiet corners – supporting different ways of writing and being.
All events are free and open to everyone.
How it went
Be part of the Rakstivāls
We welcome writers, thinkers, and partners who want to create something meaningful together. Join us in a festival that explores writing beyond the page.