In the summer of 2026, from 19 to 21 June, Riga hosted the 20th Baltic Student Song and Dance Festival “Gaudeamus”, bringing together 5,000 students from Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia. Festival events took place at the University of Latvia, Vērmanes Garden, Dailes Theatre, Riga Cathedral, Old Riga and Brīvības Square.
The 20th Baltic Student Song and Dance Festival in Riga brought together student artistic ensembles from higher education institutions across the Baltic states – 66 choirs, 44 folk dance ensembles and 9 wind orchestras.
Catalogue of the 20th Baltic Student Song and Dance Festival “Gaudeamus”.
About the Festival
The “Gaudeamus” tradition began in 1956 in Tartu, and since then the festival has been held 19 times across the Baltics. It is a significant part of Baltic cultural and academic identity, promoting the preservation of traditions and the involvement of young people in folk culture. The festival represents an important stage in safeguarding the unique Song and Dance Festival tradition and strengthening the unity of the Baltic states. It is held alternately in one of the Baltic countries.
The organization of the 20th Baltic Student Song and Dance Festival is ensured by the Ministry of Education and Science in cooperation with the University of Latvia and the Riga Municipality.
