On February 6, from 12:00 to 2:00 PM, the Ventspils Seaside Open-Air Museum will host a farewell-to-winter and spring-welcoming event featuring masquerading, rituals, and joyful time together with the Ugāle folklore group “Urdava” and tradition bearers from “Kalna Āzeri” in Snēpele, as well as a seminar–workshop on making sweets from bee honey.

The traditional Latvian seasonal festival Meteņi will take place at the Ventspils Seaside Open-Air Museum, inviting both adults and children to discover ancient customs and beliefs and to experience the farewell to winter through folklore traditions. The event programme also includes the lighting of a bonfire and activities connected with solstice rituals.

Meteņi was the last day of the year when people were allowed to go mumming (known as ķekatas or budēļi). During the event, participants will learn about Meteņi-related beliefs, dress up in traditional masks, and take part in loud and joyful processions. In ancient times, masquerading symbolised renewal and the gaining of new strength, which is why the budēļi jumped, made noise, sang, and danced, bringing fertility and good fortune to homes.