When lilacs are in bloom at the end of May and beginning of June, a visit to the Latvian State Institute of Fruit Growing’s cherry tree fields near Dobele (south-central Latvia) is recommended, which boasts a four hectare large lilac garden, the largest in the Baltics and one of the largest in Europe.
This unique garden features 200 various types of lilacs, as well as hybrids. The garden itself was established by the famous Latvian horticulturist Peteris Upitis after the Second World War. His dream was to make Latvia the lilac capital of the world. This dream continues to be fulfilled to this day, as professional gardeners and enthusiasts continue to care for the lilacs, which are not only beautiful but very durable. Many of Latvia’s parks and gardens continue to be enriched with lilacs on a regular basis.
A walk through the beautiful lilac gardens on a warm summer day, with its intoxicating aroma, is a dream come true for many. Painters, photographers, artists and nature lovers rush to the gardens during the short period the lilacs are in bloom to witness this beauty of nature.
During the weekends, special “lilac” concerts will be organized. In previous years, various choirs, opera singers and other musicians performed at these concerts.
The lilac festival’s concert dates will be announced only after it has been determined when exactly the lilacs will be in full bloom. Updated information will be available at the following web-sites –www.lvai.lv and www.zemgaletourism.lv. Usually the culmination of the festival is the last Sunday in May or the first Sunday in June.
