For many Latvians living in the UK, planning a return visit to their home parishes often revolves around the traditional summer cemetery festivals, known as Kapusvētki. Rēzekne municipality has released its comprehensive schedule for 2026, covering dozens of locations across the region. This early release allows the diaspora to coordinate travel and annual leave for these significant family and spiritual gatherings.
The Cultural Significance of Kapusvētki
Kapusvētki is a unique Latvian tradition that blends religious services with a deep-seated respect for ancestral roots. It is more than a memorial service; it is a major social event where families reunite, often traveling from across Europe to maintain the graves of their loved ones and share a meal. In the Rēzekne region, these events are typically held on Saturdays or Sundays throughout the summer months, often accompanied by a Holy Mass (Sv. Mise) at the local parish church.
While the schedule is extensive, the following table highlights key dates for some of the largest parishes within the Rēzekne municipality for the 2026 season:
| Cemetery Location | Date and Time (2026) |
|---|---|
| Pilcene Cemetery (Dricāni) | 20 June at 13:00 |
| Kolna Sloboda Cemetery (Sakstagals) | 6 June at 14:00 |
| Ozolmuiža Cemetery | 12 July at 11:30 |
| Lipuški Cemetery (Mākoņkalns) | 25 July at 14:30 |
| Kaunata Old Cemetery | 22 June at 13:00 |
| Ružina Cemetery (Silmala) | 20 June at 12:00 |
| Feimaņi Cemetery | 22 August at 13:00 |
| Nagļi New Cemetery | 29 August at 13:00 |
Planning Your Visit from the UK
When organizing a trip to Rēzekne for the 2026 festival season, it is important to note that the blessing of the graves usually follows a specific religious service. In many instances, such as in Dricāni or Bikava, the Holy Mass is held an hour or two before the ceremony at the cemetery itself.
Visitors should be aware that while these dates are set well in advance by the municipality and local parishes, minor adjustments can occur due to local circumstances. It is advisable to confirm the specific times with local parish representatives or family members residing in the area closer to the date. For those traveling from the UK, flying into Riga and renting a car for the three-hour drive to the Latgale region remains the most efficient route to reach these rural locations.
Source: Rēzeknes novada pašvaldība
Article contextPeople & topics#5
What do you think about this article?
Reader Ideas Newsroom
Have a sharper angle for this topic? Add it to the community idea board and let readers vote it up for editorial review.
/linkComments
8+ useful words can earn +10-60 DP; shorter replies can still publish without DP.