Riga, Latvia 11th November 2026
On 11th November 1919, Riga, the capital of the newly declared republic of Latvia is under siege. The Latvian nationalists have retaken the capital from the Bolsheviks just months earlier and now find themselves under attack from a combined force of both the West Russian volunteer army and German forces, eager to carve out their own future in the Baltic region.
A bloody conflict would break out along the banks of the Daugava river, with an out gunned Latvian force being pounded from the attackers across the river. The Nationalists held out, retaking the left bank of the Daugava thanks to their bravery and courage, with support from the British and French Navy.
This day is known today as Lāčplēsis Day, the Bear slayers day, in honour of the Latvian forces who fought and died for their freedom during the period known as the War of Independence. This complex chapter in Latvian history is the very cornerstone of the republic that would later find itself under Soviet and Nazi occupations. These occupations taking place just 20 years after the bloody conflict of the War of Independence. All of these stories of struggle, conflict and endurance have left a mark on the Latvian identity.
Remembrance events will take place down by Riga castle, with the lighting of candles taking place by thousands of Latvian families to mark this calendar event. The following week on the 18th November, Latvia celebrates independence day where the story of the Latvian nation began back in 1918.
November in Latvia is the true patriotic month where events will be taking place across the country and capital alike. Flags will fly, national identity will be celebrated and a time to remember what brought the Latvian society to the point they are in the World today. With World events unfolding around the tiny Latvian nation, it becomes clear that the struggle to maintain independence is as relevant today as it was for those who fought for it back in the very start of Latvia’s journey.
Make sure to check out the list of events taking place in the link below
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