2013 www.ventspils.lv · www.visitventspils.com

Ventspils THE CITY ON THE MOVE CONTENTS Useful: 20 15 Events in Ventspils in 2013 Nature Tourism in Ventspils 21 Organizing Conferences 16, 17 and Seminars in Active Recreation Ventspils

22, 23 4–7 18, 19 Tourism Service in Living History Capital of Flowers Ventspils and Fountains 8–13 24, 25 Entertainment and Ventspils County Recreation for Adults and Kids 26–28 14 How to get to Ventspils Recreation by the Baltic Sea for the Whole Family Family and Recreation 3 Friendly City Welcome to Ventspils – the hospitable seaside city, where harbour and Blue Flag beach live in perfect harmony; the city which is proud of its language of Vents, its own flag and even its own currency – vents; the city which always welcomes its guests with an open heart. The festive and joyful atmosphere is always present in Ventspils – this year the Port of Ventspils will celebrate its 750th anniversary, the city itself will turn 723, but in the end of July Ventspils will gather participants of the International Regatta. There is a certain charm in the already traditional values – the cow sculptures, which have grown in number after already two Cow Parades, the Livonian Order Castle, which welcomes the locals and city guests with light, beautiful rooms and a new exposition after the renovation of its 2nd floor, as well as many flower sculptures, now joined by the Flower Cow, Ladybird Family in Pārventa, Basketball and the fourth rabbit in the Rabbit Family. The ancient narrow-gauge train Mazbānītis, which is a full-scale participant of Ventspils transport and in summers takes travellers Facts about Ventspils from the Seaside Park to the Adventure Park; the lively world of games and playing – Children’s Town and Children’s Park Fantasy; City rights since 1378 fountains greeting visitors with water splashes; the white sand Area: 55.4 km2 (including 38% forests, parks, and water) beach living up to the standards of a Blue Flag beach and many Population: ~38,000 other wonderful things and places should also be remembered. Distance from Riga: ~190km Sea coastline: ~12km Lake: Būšnieku Lake River: Venta

City logo City emblem City flag Also awards serve as living proof to the variety and dynamic development of Ventspils: • 3rd place in the category “Senior Citizens Friendly Environment” of the European Commission Awards “European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations 2012”; • Nomination “European Local Government of the Year 2012. Awards for the campaign “Ventspils money – vents”: • Three awards in the festival of creative excellence “ADwards 2012” – Grand Prix, winner of the public vote, golden medal in the category of integrated campaigns; • Two awards in the 13th international advertising festival “Golden Hammer” – golden hammer in the category of advertising campaigns and silver hammer in PR category; • 13. Kiev International Advertising Festival – silver award in PR category; • Competition “Password 2012” – first place in the low-budget category of the competition; Ventspils Tourism www.visitventspils.com • European Excellence Awards 2012 – first place in category Information Centre “Launch” (launching campaigns) and jury’s award for creativity and innovative approach. and the Bank of Vents • Information about sightseeing, There is so much to see and do in Ventspils! Guests can enjoy events, recreation, transport, and good accommodation, cafés, restaurants and pubs for any accommodation taste. The city surprises its visitors with varied cultural and • Guided tours with certified Ventspils guides entertaining events, festivities, concerts and festivals. • Tourism maps, brochures, and souvenirs Visit the beautiful seaside city and see it exactly as you want to... • Information on vents and their usage See you in Ventspils! www.visitventspils.com 4

Living history

The Livonian Order Castle

The Livonian Order Castle in Ventspils is the oldest medieval (13th century) fort in Latvia, the original dimensions of which have been preserved almost unchanged. Since 2001, the Livonian Order Castle has been home to Ventspils Museum and every step here reminds that the history is still alive. Rooms on the 2nd floor after an extensive renovation delight every history and culture devotee and the broad range of expositions tells about the history of the city, the harbour and Ventspils County. The spirit of different eras surrounds events, lectures on art and history, exhibitions, and concerts. After visiting the castle, you can enjoy the exquisite meals at the medieval tavern “The Black Piglet” (Melnais sivēns).

The Livonian Order Castle offers the following educational programs: · “History Tuesdays”- lectures · “My Museum – My Castle” for adults on the history · “Medieval Times in the Castle” of the city and county of · "Ventspils Paper Dolls” Ventspils · “Deer Park Stories in the Castle” · “Twilight in the Castle” – · Creative workshop “The an exciting night tour in Making of a Doll" cooperation with the · "Let's Get to Know the castletavern "The Black Museum Together with the Piglet" Black Piglet"

A vents are here accepted

Address: Jāņa iela 17, Ventspils Phone/fax: +371 63622031 Open: 10:00–18:00 (Tuesday–Sunday), closed on Monday www.muzejs.ventspils.lv 5

Seaside Open-Air Museum

Here you can see evidence of the lives of Latvian and Livonian fishermen and farmers: boats, accommodations, granaries, hothouses, even windmills and anchors. One of the newest exhibit of the museum is Lielirbe Baptist House of Prayers which is almost 100 years old and interests its visitors not only with the unique exposition about the Baptism Movement in Ventspils County and in Latvia, but also as a venue for spiritual events, weddings, christenings, and concerts. The most favourite entertainment of the museum is taking a ride with Mazbānītis – a row of passenger carriages pulled by a 1916 steam engine on narrow-gauge railway. On Mazbānītis, you can take an unhurried ride all the way to Adventure Park, looking at the historical station building, depot and station replicas on the way. In 2012, the railway exposition of the museum gained another renovated steam engine. Ancient traditions are observed in the various festivities celebrated in the museum, and craftsmen markets and other events are also regularly organized.

Museum offers the following educational programs: · “Bread Baking” · “Weights and · “Butter Churning” Measurements” · “Straw Dolls · “Lost and Found in the · “Making Coloured Yarn” Museum”

A vents are here accepted Address: Riņķa iela 2, Ventspils; phone: +371 63624467 Open: From May 1 to October 31: 10:00–18:00, closed on Monday From November 1 to April 30: Museum is open on request, booking in advance www.muzejs.ventspils.lv 6 House of Crafts

House of Crafts (Amatu māja) is established in the renovated school building of the Duchy of Courland from the 18th century turning this building into a state-of-the-art object of culture and sightseeing. As during the 19th century there was a regional school here, where also the great compiler of Latvian folklore Krišjānis Barons studied, an authentic classroom has been set up in the House of Crafts. There are photo, weaving and pottery workshops in the building, as well as a souvenir shop “Ventiņpūrlād”. Exhibitions of art and crafts are regularly held here, as well as symposiums of ceramics and graphics.

Ostgals Peculiar, romantic setting with quiet cobbled streets and attractive wooden buildings from the 19th century. Ostgals (Harbour-End) is recognised as a national monument of urban construction. House of Crafts offers the following educational programs: · “How K. Barons Studied" · “Nine Crafts” · “Rag Dolls” · “Family Tree” · “Caligraphy" · “Learning of the Meadows” · “Ancient Shoes" · “Ancient Games and · “Retro Photo” Pastimes”

A vents are here accepted

Address: Skolas iela 3, Ventspils; phone: +371 63620174 Open: 10:00–18:00 (Tuesday–Saturday), closed on Sunday, Monday www.muzejs.ventspils.lv

Ventspils Marketplace Side to side with modern merchants the Marketplace is also weights and measurements, and a well home to carillon clock tower that rings every hour, but that is covered with city’s coats of twice a day – at 12:33:44 and 00:33:44 – plays a special tune arms and on sunny days turns into marking the astronomical time of Ventspils; exposition of a sundial. A commemorative coin made in the coin-machine will serve as a lovely memory of your visit to the Marketplace. 7

Ventspils Old Town

Town Hall Square and the cultural quarter around it have always been considered the pearl of the old town. It is home to St.Nicholas Evangelical Lutheran Church, Ventspils Main Library, Digital Centre, where Ventspils residents and guests are offered computer and Internet labs, International Writers' and Translators' House with creative atmosphere for writers and litterateurs. Culture Centre is right nearby, always welcoming guests with concerts, theatre performances and entertaining events.

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Ventspils Digital Centre Address: Akmeņu iela 3, Ventspils; phone: +371 63607607 www.digitalaiscentrs.lv

Ventspils International Writers’ and Translators’ House Address: Annas iela 13, Ventspils; phone: +371 63623595 www.ventspilshouse.lv

Ventspils Main Library Address: Akmeņu iela 2, Ventspils; phone: +371 63623598 www.biblioteka.ventspils.lv

Ventspils Culture Centre Address: Kuldīgas iela 18, Ventspils; phone: +371 63624796 www.kulturascentrs.ventspils.lv 8

Entertainment and Recreation for Adults and Kids

Water Amusement Park Children’s Town Ventspils residents and visitors have Complex is especially beloved, since and Children’s a broad range of opportunities you can combine physical activities to use the services of the Water with recreation and relaxation. The Park “Fantasy” Amusement Park for recreation and water recreation zone offers fun health improvement. It hosts water rides in one of the two slides or the There are many playgrounds in Ventspils, attractions for active recreation, Mountain River, while SPA Complex but children especially love the world SPA complex for relaxation, as well offers relaxation in various hothouses, of games and playing - the Children's as a swimming pool, a gym and saunas, immunity improving salt room Town and Children's Park “Fantasy”, both gymnastics halls for sports. or massage baths and showers with together holding almost half a hundred The Water Recreation and SPA relaxing music in the background. various playing devices. Every Sunday at 12:00 in the Children’s Town and at 15:00 at Children’s Park “Fantasy”, children are invited to exciting events free of charge.

A vents are here accepted Address: Lauku iela 5, Ventspils Phone: +371 63623974 www.udensparks.lv 9 Ventspils Creative House with Planetarium and Observatory

Discover new secrets of the Universe by equipped with a high-end telescope visiting the planetarium of the Creative for observing the Sun, planets, their House with unique star shows and satellites, and nebulas. If the weather 50 minutes long 360 degree movies, conditions are appropriate, night shows as well as the observatory which is are also available.

A vents are here accepted

Address: Maiznieku iela 11, Ventspils; phone: +371 63622805 www.jaunradesnams.lv

Ostas Street Promenade and Tour Boat “Duke Jacob"

Ostas Street Promenade is a beloved place for walks both by Ventspils residents, as well as visitors of the city. From one side, it is enclosed by the River Venta and Ventspils Port businesses, from the other – by historic buildings and tourism objects. You can see the city from the water by taking a 45 minute long cruise along the port and the mouth of the Venta River on a tour boat called “Duke Jacob” (Hercogs Jēkabs). Outdoor Fitness Equipment

Ventspils is different form other Latvian cities not only with free parking, but also with the opportunity to do sport free of charge. Outdoor fitness equipment is set up in several places – Reņķa Garden, Seaside Park, Pārventa Forest Park, Adventure Park, next to the library in the centre of Pārventa, Sun Corner or the square between Saules and Aizsaules streets.

Children Playgrounds

To make playing even more fun to the young guests and residents of Ventspils, there are four playgrounds in the city. In 2013 additional four will be set up, as well open-air fitness equipment for sporting outdoors. 10

Seaside Park

The Seaside Park with playgrounds and pic- nic places is one of the most beloved places for recreation in Ventspils. On the Anchor Path everyone can get acquainted with giants of the sea – anchors, while on the Jungle Trail – see paths with various surfaces, and climb and crawl on foot-bridges, suspension bridges and cables. The Seaside Park is crossed by Mazbānītīs and along its narrow-gauge railway right up to the Adventure Park there is a bike path.

Reņķa Garden

This green corner of the city will make every vacationer feel good. Here, childhood fantasies have come to life in form of unusual environmental objects, in summer, concerts and dances are held under the shade of the big trees, while runners, Nordic walkers and gymnasts prefer this place for sports.

Kurzeme Democentre Ventspils is home to an interactive science demonstration centre – Kurzemes Democentre. Here, in an exciting and educational way you can learn about products made by Ventspils businesses, some of the basics of physics, as well as learn something new about space technologies and see the first satellites of Latvia and Estonia. Visitors are invited to launch a rocket with their mind, participate in creation of virtual paintings or send a signal into the space to the first Latvian satellite Venta-1 simply by blinking their eyes.

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Address: Kaiju iela 9, Ventspils Phone: +371 63630435 www.vatp.lv/democentrs Visits should be booked in advance 11

Pārventa Library

Pārventa Library has received the award from the Latvia Association of Architects as the best building in Latvia in 2009, and it has also been nominated for several international architecture awards. It is a jewel of the city, attracting visitors not only with its beautiful premises and rich collection of literature, but also as a venue for creative meetings, concerts and excellent art exhibitions.

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Address: Tārgales iela 4, Ventspils Phone: +371 63680073 www.biblioteka.ventspils.lv

Theatre House “Sea Gate” The theatre house offers the widest range of professional performance arts and thus has a significant role in the concert life of Latvia. “Sea Gate” (Jūras vārti) hosts symphonic orchestras, as well as excellent Latvian and international rock stars. Here, you can enjoy operas, ballets and performances by the best Latvian theatre, as well as visit art exhibitions.

A vents are here accepted Address: Karlīnes iela 40, Ventspils Phone: +371 63624271 www.jurasvarti.lv 12

Ventspils Cow Parade

In 2002 Ventspils hosted an international art and sponsoring project “Cow Parade 2002” or cow parade. This action started in Zurich, and spread across the world, turning 26 glass fibre natural-sized cows into works of art. Most of the cows were sold in a charity auction, but 6 of them can still be seen in the city: on Ostas Street Promenade, there is “Latvian Black”, at the Basketball Hall of the Olympic Centre – “Ms. Moo–Dunk”, at Children's Town – the cow “Life is Beautiful”, at the Livonian Order Castle – “Sea Cow”, the cow “Oil”– at children’s home “Selga”, but in the Seaside Camping – “London Cow”. Later, “Travelling Cow” on Ostas Street Promenade, “Sailor Cow” on Southern Pier, and “The Rocking Cow” at the dock of the tour boat “Duke Jacob” joined the Cow Parade as well. 13

In 2012, marking the 10th anniversary of the “Cow Parade Ventpils 2002” events, Ventspils streets, squares and parks once again gave home to 24 colourful and diverse participants of “Cow Parade Ventspils 2012”. After the charity auction the cows have moved to their new owners, but some of them still delight the residents and guests of Ventspils. All in all there are nineteen of them: “Cow of Light”, “Pomegranate Cow”, “Cowlosus”, “Storm Cow”, three “Popular Cows”, by attendees of the Cow Parade, “Feminine Cow”, “Ancestor", “Turquoise”, “A Midsummer Night's Levitation of an Entrepreneur above a Kurzeme Blue Cow”, “There Must Be Order!”, “Keeping a Clean Sheet”, “Stone Cow”, “At the Mirror”, “Evergreen Cow”, “Milky Way”, “Ventspils Cow of Herbs”, “Cow of Golden Sun and Silver Moon”.

www.cowparade.ventspils.lv 14

Recreation by the Baltic Sea for the Whole Family

Beach Aquapark

The Beach Aquapark is especially popular in hot summer days; however, it is not short of visitors even in cooler weather. In the Aquapark, you can slide down water slides as high as 8 and 10 metres, splash around in various pools with a +24°C warm water or get warm in a sauna or Jacuzzi on a cooler day. There is a special area for children with all kinds of age appropriate attractions.

A vents are here accepted Ventspils Address: Medņu iela 19, Ventspils; phone: +371 26429684 Blue Flag Beach www.pludmalesakvaparks.lv and Surf Beach During summers, Ventspils beach attracts visitors from near and far with the white sand, “sun-baths” in the dunes and the well-equipped environment. Some parts of the beach are also available for surfing activities and nudists, but the compliance with international quality standards is proved by the Blue Flag certificate.

Southern Pier Promenade There is no better place for a walk or a bike ride than the Southern Pier, any time, any season. The end of the Pier is and excellent place for watching sunsets, the sea gate, and approaching ships. On the Pier, you can also take a picture next to the sculpture of “Sailor Cow”, and at the parking lot – climb on the deck of the sailor ship “Azov” or sit in the “Chair” made of giant chains. The 19m high Watchtower with binoculars offers a bird’s eye view of the city panorama. The Steep Coastline 15 of Staldzene Staldzene is a beloved place for walks both for residents and guests of Ventspils, who apart from the city chic also enjoy wild coastlines, pine forests and the Nature Tourism smell of smoked fish. in Ventspils

Bike Paths in Ventspils

In Ventspils, both adults and children can get on a bike and go on a lovely tour along 40km of bike paths covering almost the whole city. For your comfort there are also 624 peculiar bike stands all over the city.

Būšnieku Lake Būšnieku Lake is a popular recreation spot among families, fishermen and surfers. Here you can find fully-facilitated places for swimming and picnics, in boat rental you can get a boat, spend a night in a tent, but for surfers, there are 8m long footbridges. Every spring, running enthusiasts go for a run around the lake. Phone number of boat rental: +371 22000509

Deer Park The 30ha large Deer Park is located near Būšnieku Lake and can be easily accessed by car. Red deer, roes, and wild boars can be observed from the 6.5m high watchtower located nearby the animal feeding spots, thus the best time for watching the residents of the Deer Park is during their meals.

Phone: +371 29102584

A vents are Open: 10:00–16:00 here accepted (Tuesday–Sunday) 16

Active Recreation

Olympic Centre “Ventspils”

One of the largest and most progressive sports complexes in Latvia that promotes the Olympic movement, facilitates achievements in professional sports, and encourages everybody to lead an active life. Both professional athletes and amateurs do sports here, and the centre also hosts national and international sports competitions.

A vents are Skateparks here accepted Administration of the In Ventspils, fans of extreme sports Olympic Centre “Ventspils” have been especially thought of. Address: Sporta iela 7/9, Ventspils They can enjoy a modern skatepark Phone: +371 63622587 with 40 constructions and the www.ocventspils.lv largest ramp in the Baltics. Skatepark is open every day and For information call: free of charge. During autumn and Basketball Hall: +371 63622061 winter you can practice in Ice Rings: +371 63621998 Winter skatepark. It features Sports House “Centrs” everything necessary both for (Brīvības iela 14): +371 27817093 demonstrations and practices. Sports House “Pārventa” (Tārgales iela 5): +371 63665104 A Hotel of the Olympic Centre “Ventspils” Summer Skatepark Address: Lielais prospekts 33, Ventspils Address: Sporta iela 5 Phone/fax: +371 63628032 (in the territory of the www.hotelocventspils.lv Olympic Centre “Ventspils”) www.ocventspils.lv

A vents are here accepted Winter Skatepark Address: Lāčplēša iela 7, Ventspils Phone: +371 29353618 Open: 16:00–20:00 (Tuesday–Friday); 11:00–20:00 (Saturday); Sundays and Mondays for bookings in advance www.ocventspils.lv 17

Skiing Hill “Lemberg’s Trillby”

The artificially made hill is 52m high, and from the top of it you can see the whole city, forests of Courland, and even the sea. The hill is getting higher and wider with every year. Also the length of the slope is extending, and is now 240m long. The hill will satisfy all its visitors by offering tracks for both experts and beginners, a snowboard park with trampolines, a tubing track and other good things.

Adventure Park A are vents here accepted Adventure Park is a complex for active recreation and sports. It is open all year long. In winter, the skiing hill “Lemberg's Trillby” (Lemberga hūte) is open here, but in sum- Address: Saules iela 141, Ventspils mer, you can test your strength and agility on different attractions or have fun in the Phone: +371 28611333 wakepark. The tallest inhabitant of the Adventure Park is the brass elk sculpture on www.lembergahute.lv the top of the hill.

Summer activities Rope trail Cat's Trail, rope course for children Bear Cub, tubing track, bicycle rental and bike track, velocarts, mountain scooters and skates, electrical rodeo bulls, catapult, zorb ball, trampolines, electro- mobiles and excavators for children, inflat- able attractions, paintball field, wakepark, café, hilltop binoculars. New in season 2013: driving school for children, artificial ice-rink, attractions with trampoline boats, bumper cars and bumper boats, as well as a large picnic area.

A vents are here accepted

Address: Saules iela 141, Ventspils Phone: +371 28611333 www.piedzivojumuparks.lv 18

Capital of Flowers and Fountains

Flowers Ventspils is a city, which cannot be imagined without flowers. They are like its soul, surfacing in the countless flower beds, pyramids and sculptures. Residents and guests of Ventspils rejoice at “Duck Family” in Children’s Town, “Underwater World” at the Beach Aquapark, “Rabbit Family” at the Adventure Park, “Ladybirds” on the Ostas Street Promenade, “Bobsleigh Team” in the Jaunpilsēta Square, flower beds “Sea Stones” and “Flower Cow” in Sarkanmuiža meadow, “Basketball” at the Olympic Centre “Ventspils” and “Ladybird Family” in Pārventa. And not to forget about the Flower Clock which keeps time and rings in a new hour on Lielais prospects, as well as the International Flower Carpet Festival which brings joy to residents and guests of Ventspils during the City Festival. 19

Fountains

Ventspils has seven fountains that let you daydream about the loveliest moments of summer, bring refreshment to the by passers with a rainbow in every drop: “Ship Observer” on Ostas Street Promenade, “Sun Boats” in Jaunpilsēta Square, “Millstone” in Dzirnavu Square, “Dune Pine” next to Pārventa Library, “Drops” at Ventspils University, “Fountain of Vidumupīte” and fountain in the pond of Reņķa Garden. 20 Events in Ventspils in 2013

January 13 Little Song Festival 2–4 City Festival Fair 11–13 Annual festivity “Svjatki” 14 Opera “La Boheme” by Latvian National Opera in 3 Latvian Musclemen Championship 15 Musical performance “Snow White’s School” by Theatre House “Sea Gate” 3 Book Festival in Town Hall Square Liepāja Theatre in Theatre House “Sea Gate” 21 A round of MTB mountain bike marathon 3, 4 International Archery Competition 17 Opening of the exhibition of Rūdolfs Pinnis’ 22–27 Library Week events in Ventspils 4 Concert of the city festival in Theatre House paintings in Livonian Order Castle libraries “Sea Gate” 24 Performance “The Chic Wedding” by Liepāja 25 “Come and Do Sports!” – middle distance run 8–11 Ghetto Games Festival in Ventspils Theatre in Theatre House “Sea Gate” and Nordic walking 9–11 International Camp for Photographers “Art 25–27 Baltic Championship in Archery * Latvian Television’s Contest of Young Singers Camp 2013” 26 Dress rehearsal for award ceremony and award “Master of Voice" 12–17 Modern Rhythm Music Festival and Master ceremony of Latvian Radio 2 Rock and Pop contest class “Ventspils Groove 2013” th “Musical Bank” May 24 4 Nordic Walking Festival of Latvia 24 Ancient Bonfire Night 25 Performance “Forest” by Riga Russian Theatre in 5 Performance “Tale of a Coin” by Dailes Theatre in Theatre House “Sea Gate” Theatre House “Sea Gate” 26 International Bard Festival “Tatyana’s Day” 11 The opening event of bicycle and summer September 30 Performance M.Zīverts “Censorship” by Ventspils tourism season in the Adventure Park, “Bicycle Tour 1 Knowledge Day at Adventure Park theatre in Ventspils Culture Centre in the City”, public race “Outrunning the narrow- 1 Parish Day at the Seaside Open-Air Museum gauge train”. 13, 14 Livonian Culture Festival February 18 Museum Night 9–14 Poetry Days 2013 in Ventspils Libraries 1–3 European Rally Championship, Round 2, 18 Pārventa Festival 12 “Come and Do Sports!” – middle distance run Latvian Rally Championship, Rounds 1 and 2 25 Flower Market and Nordic walking 7 Performance “Granholm’s Method” by New Riga 25, 26 International Climbing Competition 22 Baltic Union Day Theatre in Theatre House “Sea Gate” “Ventspils OPEN 2013” 24 Performance “Alphabet for a Joke” by Latvian 9 Latvian Winter Championship in Archery 25 Race around Būšnieku Lake Puppet Theatre in Theatre House “Sea Gate” 12 Performance in Russian “Karlsson-on-the-Roof” 25, 26 Children’s Festival 26 Opening of the exhibition “The Port of Ventspils by Latvian Puppet Theatre in Theatre House – 750” in Livonian Order Castle “Sea Gate” June 26 “Come and Do Sports!” – middle distance run and Nordic walking 14 Valentine’s Day run in city streets 1 Blue Flag Celebration 27 Olympic Day 2013 16 Final of the national contest for Eurovision 2013 8, 9 Knight Tournament “Lilium Vindaviensis” 16 “Come and Do Sports!” - skiing event at the 13–16 Summer Olympics of Latvian Youth skiing hill “Lemberg’s Trillby” 15 Latvian Championship in BMX October 16 Latvian Cup in Snowboarding and Freestyle Skiing 15 Adventure Park Half Marathon 5, 6 Russian Culture Festival 17 Snowboarding and Freestyle Skiing 15 Preparing for the Song Festival in Livonian 11 Memorial event for opera singer A. Vāne Competition “Burton Rookie Tour” Order Castle 26, 27 International figure skating competition 22 Performance “Everything about Women” by Riga 21 Day of herbs “Ventspils Pearl 2013” Russian Theatre in Theatre House “Sea Gate” 23 Līgo Eve and Janis Night open-air dance 27 Folklore Festival in the name of K. Barons 26 Performance “Jasmine. Pārdaugava” by Latvian 21–23 Līgo Fair 27 Opera “The Corsair” by Latvian National Opera National Theatre in Theatre House “Sea Gate” 29 Closing concert and ball of the Latvian Hit in Theatre House “Sea Gate” Parade 2013 March November 1, 2 International Swimming Competition “Crystal 11 Day of Lāčplēsis Drop 2013” 11–17 Latvian Culture Festival in Ventspils libraries 2 Princess and pirate day in the Livonian Order Castle 14–16 International Festival of National Cultures 9 Ukrainian Culture Days “Ventspils Garland” 14 Performance for youth “Don’t Touch Me” by 18 95th anniversary of the proclamation of Latvian Puppet Theatre in Theatre House “Sea Gate” the Republic of Latvia and singing in Town 16 Performance “Primadonnas” by Dailes Theatre Hall Square in Theatre House “Sea Gate” 30 Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony 16 End of season event on skiing hill “Lemberg’s Trillby” 17 Traditional Russian Festival “Maslenitsa” July December 22 Opening of the exhibition “Kampai” – Japanese 6 Belarusian Culture Festival “From Janis Night to 7 St. Nicholas Day in Livonian Order Castle household objects, private collection in Livonian Kupala” 20 Eve of the log Order Castle 12–14 Fair of the Sea Festival 20–23 Christmas Fair 23 Chamber opera by V.Pūce “Chess” in Theatre 13 Sea Festival in Ventspils 21 Christmas Concert by Ventspils Choirs House “Sea Gate” 19–21 “Kurland Bike Meet 2013”- gathering of 22 Festival of Mazbānītis 25 Remembrance day of the victims of bikers of the Baltic Sea region 25 Bridge Festival on Christmas communistic genocide 20 3rd night run 31 New Year’s Eve Run 27 Master class and concert by Finnish jazz pianist 22–24 International Regatta “The Tall Ship Races 2013” 31 Celebrating the New Year Iiro Rantala in Theatre House “Sea Gate” 27 Super Motorace in Adventure Park 29 Performance “Jakish and Pupche” by Riga 27 International Petanque Competition Russian Theatre in Theatre House “Sea Gate” 28 Weightlifting Tournament “Ventspils Atlants 29, 30 Easter Fair 2013” 31 Easter at the Seaside Open-Air Museum August April 2 Opera “Love Potion” by Latvian National Opera in 4. Performance “Shameless Olds” by Valmiera Theatre House “Sea Gate” Drama Theatre in Theatre House “Sea Gate” 2–4 Ventspils City Festival – 723 Organizing Conferences and Seminars in Ventspils 21

are also available. Document printing, copying, binding, laminating, event photography, filming, and broadcasting over the Internet provided. Address: Akmeņu iela 3, Ventspils Phone: +371 63607607 www.digitalaiscentrs.lv Cultural Centre The Livonian Order Castle Ventspils House of Crafts Offers a large hall with up to 280 Offers covered courtyard for events Offers a classroom (24 seats and 5-10 seats and a small hall with up to 100 of up to 50-70 people, an education additional seats) and exhibition hall seats for conferences, seminars, and centre with up to 45 seats, an (50 seats). Provides with a TV, video, other public events. Sound equip- exhibition hall (70 seats), as well as multimedia projector and a CD/DVD ment also available. Internet, computers, multimedia player. Address: Kuldīgas iela 18, Ventspils projectors, screens, interactive board Address: Skolas iela 3, Ventspils Phone: +371 63623796 in the education centre, sound Phone: +371 63620174 [email protected] equipment for conferences and www.muzejs.ventspils.lv www.kulturascentrs.ventspils.lv catering in cooperation with the castle tavern “Black Piglet” or other Ventspils Creative HOUSE catering companies. Offers a large hall with 365 seats Address: Jāņa iela 17, Ventspils for conferences, seminars, and other Phone: +371 63622031, 63621309 public events. The facilities include www.muzejs.ventspils.lv sound equipment, video equipment, screen, projector and Internet connection. Address: Maiznieku iela 11, Ventspils Ventspils Ferry Terminal Phone: +371 63622805, 26474511 Ventspils University Offers a conference hall (30 seats), www.jaunradesnams.lv College and a public hall on the first Offers rooms for seminars, floor (~150m2). Catering services conferences, and other public events. available. Amphitheatre halls with 188 seats Address: Dārzu iela 6, Ventspils and 130 seats, auditoriums with Ventspils Main Library Phone: +371 26425933 30–70 seats, conference halls with Offers a classroom (20 computerized www.portofventspils.lv 15-40 seats and computer rooms workstations with Internet connection, with 15–30 seats. The facilities interactive board, TV, video, CD, DVD include boards and computer with players, multimedia projector, screen, multimedia projector for lecturers, special computers for the visually TV, video, overhead projector, impaired), an event and exhibit hall Kurzeme Democentre interpreters’ booths and headphones, (50 seats, Internet connection, TV, Offers rooms for corporate and wireless microphones, auditorium video, CD, DVD players, multimedia educational events, seminars and for video conferences. We also projector, screen). Document print- other activities upon individual offer IT support, and copying, ing and copying services available. request. The facilities at the printing services. Our cooperation Outsourced catering can also be Democentre are appropriate for partners offer catering for coffee provided. Ventspils Business Centre groups of up to 70 people. Please pauses with drinks and snacks (café Address: Akmeņu iela 2, Ventspils Offers five different modern contact the specialists at the th “Panorāma” on the 6 floor), as well Phone: +371 63623598 conference halls (with up to 122 Democentre to find out about as accommodation (hostel of PSIA www.biblioteka.ventspils.lv seats), and a banquet hall. The technical equipment and other “Ventspils nekustamie īpašumi”). facilities include multimedia specific needs to make your event Address: Inženieru iela 101, Ventspils projectors, interpreters’ booths and a success Phone: +371 63628303, 63629657, headphones, wireless microphones. Address: Kaiju iela 9, Ventspils 29250608 In addition, a recreation complex Phone: +371 63630435, [email protected] with a sauna, a pool, and a double 26597913, 28807779 www.venta.lv luxury suite is available. [email protected] Address: Ostas iela 23, Ventspils www.democentrs.lv Phone: +371 26668517 [email protected] www.lascoinvestment.lv Olympic Centre “Ventspils” The hotel of the Olympic Centre “Ventspils” offers an equipped conference room for up to 35 people. The facilities include a projector, Ventspils Port Business screen, board, sound equipment, Centre copying machine, TV, and café Theatre House “Sea Gate” Offers four halls – two with 12 seats, “H2O” can serve up to 40 people Offers a large hall with 695 seats one with 16 seats, a large hall with at once. Basketball Hall offers a (including balcony), and a 120 seats, and a lobby for public multifunctional hall with 1500 or Ventspils Digital Centre rehearsal hall with up to 100 seats. events. Video equipment, screen, 3000 seats and a press room for 20 Offers a classroom (18 seats with Microphones, sound equipment, projector and Internet connection people. Catering also available in the computer connection), and a projector, and board are available. provided. café “Bullītis” (40 seats). conference room (up to 40 seats). Address: Karlīnes iela 40, Address: Dzintaru iela 20a, Address: Sporta iela 7/9, Ventspils Wired and wireless Internet, Ventspils Ventspils Phone: +371 63628251 computers, multimedia projectors, Phone: +371 63624271 Phone: +371 63607232, 29413110 www.ocventspils.lv video, screens, and interactive boards www.jurasvarti.lv 22 Tourism Service in Ventspils

Hotel “Dzintarjūra”*** Guest House “Ostmala” Address: Ganību iela 26, Ventspils Address: Peldu iela 3, Ventspils Phone: +371 63622719 Phone: +371 29713319, 26130614, 63625802 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected]; www.ostmala.lv www.dzintarjura.lv Price: LVL 24–100 per room, additional place LVL 10, pets Price: LVL 20–75 per room with breakfast from LVL 10. We are situated in the heart of the Old Town, Three-star hotel located in the very centre of Ventspils, 150m next to the Creative House and near the Livonian Order from the Olympic Centre “Ventspils” and 1.5km from the Castle. Separate room for tourists with bikes and for skiing beach. Rooms for conferences and banquets. Accommodation enthusiasts. Guests can use the kitchen. We offer services of and catering for groups. medical tourism and haemodialysis.

119 15 2 1st place in the accommo- dation contest in 2012

Guest House Hotel of the Olympic Centre “Ventspils”*** “Saknes” Address: Lielais prospekts 33, Ventspils Phone/fax: +371 63628032 Address: Inženieru iela 40, Ventspils E-mail: [email protected] Phone: +371 29255294 www.hotelocventspils.lv E-mail: [email protected] www.ocventspils.lv www.hotelsaknes.tomes.lv Price: from LVL 23. The hotel offers comfortable and cosy accommodation in the city centre, right next to the Olympic Centre “Ventspils” Café “H2O” is open in the hotel. Guest House “Veldzes Nams” Address: Saules iela 83, Ventspils Phone: +371 29262431 E-mail: [email protected] www.veldzesnams.lv Price: from LVL 5 per person We are located in the centre of city’s recreation and entertainment area (5–10 minute walk) All rooms are equipped with an air conditioner, TV, WC, shower, free wireless Internet. Fully-facilitated backyard, children playground, free parking, bus stop nearby.

154 2nd place in the accommo- 40 dation contest in 2012

Hotel “Raibie logi” Holiday House “Jūra” Address: Lielais prospekts 61, Address: Jūrmalas iela 4, Ventspils Ventspils; phone: +371 29142327 Phone: +371 22492206 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] www.raibielogi.lv Price: LVL 25–40 per room Price: LVL 23–57 per room with breakfast. A cosy hotel in a Close to the sea, only 400m from the central beach and 200m renovated wooden building of the early 20th century, situated in from Children’s Town. The holiday house is especially well the central part of Ventspils. Close to the main tourism, sports and suited for families with children. Swings and a trampoline recreation areas, as well as the administrative centre of the city. All available in the backyard. Guests can rent bicycles and have rooms are equipped with free internet, TV, WC, and shower. a sauna. 26 1st place in the accommo- 19 2nd place in the accommo- dation contest in 2012 dation contest in 2012

Hotel “Vilnis” *** Holiday House “Namelis” Address: Talsu iela 5, Ventspils Address: Piltenes iela 28, Ventspils Phone: +371 63668880 Phone: +371 29150063 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] www.hotelvilnis.lv www.namelis.lv Price: LVL 30–70 per room with breakfast Price: from LVL 50 per house Three-star business hotel with a restaurant and bar on the A small and cosy country-style house in the city for a friendly group right bank of the Venta River. Next to the business centre of up to 10 guests. Families with children are especially welcome. and 2km from the city centre. Rooms for conferences and banquets. Accommodation and catering for groups.

93 3rd place in the accommo- 10 1st place in the accommo- dation contest in 2012 dation contest in 2012

2nd place in the accom- KAFE modation contest in 2012 HOTEL Kārļa iela 5, Ventspils, LV 3601 +371 636 26999, [email protected] www.hotelkupfernams.lv Villa “Leonardo” Address: Vasarnīcu iela 48, Ventspils Phone: +371 26573140 E-mail: [email protected] www.villaventspils.lv

Choose what you want! Guest House “Martas nams” Want what you chose. Address: Riņķa iela 10, Ventspils (Leonardo Da Vinci) Phone: +371 29324686 E-mail: [email protected] • Spacious apartments with separate www.martasnams.lv entrances; “Martas nams” offers cosy and comfortable rooms with all the • Beautiful decorative garden; facilities: shower, WC, TV, Wi-Fi and a small kitchen. We are situated in a quiet area, 5 minute walking distance from the • Fantastic location; sea, next to the Seaside Open-Air Museum. • In the area of Seaside Park and Seaside Open-Air Museum. 23 You are very welcome! 23

Accommodation in a private house Apartments “Komforts” “Mazais namiņš” Address: Inženieru iela 99, Ventspils Address: K. Valdemāra iela 29, Ventspils Phone: +371 29262976 Phone: +371 63626132, 29677730 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Fully-facilitated apartments near the Blue Flag beach and Price: LVL 7 (per person); LVL 2.50 per tent place (for 1 person). Children's Town. Guests have access to an equipped kitchen, Lovely accommodation close to the beach and Children’s Town. wireless Internet, television and information on recreation in Fully equipped kitchen. Picnic spot in the backyard. Campfire spot. Ventspils. Long-term agreements can be made at good prices.

10 12 3 1st place in the accommo- 4 dation contest in 2012

Accommodation in a private house Holiday House “Podnieki” “Mazā magnolija” Address: Robežu iela 185, Ventspils Phone: +371 26330216 (LV, RU); Address: Ugāles iela 7, Ventspils +371 29150434 (ENG, DE) Phone: +371 29286735 E-mail: [email protected]; www.travelventspils.lv E-mail: [email protected]; www.mazamagnolija.lv Fully-facilitated holiday house and family rooms (2+2) at the border Price: LVL 25-50 per room of Ventspils. We offer: a genuine countryside hothouse, children Fully-facilitated accommodation in a private house. Guests have playground with a trampoline, campfire and barbeque sports, separate entrance. WC, shower, TV, Internet in the room. Guests can rooms for celebrations, and horse-back rides. Guests can use a fully use an equipped kitchen. equipped kitchen. Tent and trailer sites from LVL 3.

15 2nd place in the accommo- 15 25 5 dation contest in 2012

Hostel “Panda nams” Address: Kuldīgas iela 19, Ventspils Phone: +371 26322040 E-mail: [email protected] http://panda-nams.lv, www.pandanams.viss.lv Address: Robežu iela 7, Ventspils Price: LVL 20–30 per room, LVL 10 per person; children up to Phone: +371 63629904 5 years – free of charge. Fully-facilitated room in the city E-mail: [email protected] centre. Shower and WC both in the rooms, and in the common premises. Suitable for families, beds for children also available. www.ventspilsreiss.lv Equipped kitchen. Near the bus station and ferry terminal. Passenger transportation with buses along Ventspils city, intercity and tourism 15 2nd place in the accommo- dation contest in 2012 routes.

Tourist Hostel of Ventspils University College Address: Inženieru iela 101, Ventspils Phone: +371 63629202, 20278255 E-mail: [email protected]

Price: from LVL 10 per room Number of guests during summer – 300, during winter – 30. Next to Ventspils University, close to the beach. Offers fully- facilitated single and double rooms.

300 1st place in the accommo- dation contest in 2012 Legend Seaside Camping (Piejūras kempings) Pay with vents Banquet Services Address: Vasarnīcu iela 56, Ventspils Phone: +371 63627925 Beds Bicycle Rental Fax: +371 63620810 E-mail: [email protected] WC, Shower Boat Rental www.camping.ventspils.lv Sports Field Price: LVL 25-52 per house Catering Highest quality camping in Latvia, 600m from the Blue Flag beach. Conference and Seminar Horse Riding Facilities Number of Camp Sites Parking Number of Trailer Sites TV Bathhouse Internet Fishing Swimming Area Medical Services

172 70 100 Playground for Children Luggage Storage 24

Sightseeing in Ventspils County

1 Jūrkalne – one of the most picturesque coastlines of the Baltic Sea with an impressive 20m high bluff. This is the place of “Sail of Hope” – a monument to the World 2 Užava Brewery – founded in 1994. War II Latvian refugees to Sweden, One of the few places in Latvia where and the old wooden bridge over “live” beer is still made. Since its opening the Rīva River. Ugunspļava (Fire the brewery has been producing two Meadow) with nature path and other types of beer – Užavas gaišais (light) and objects for sightseeing. Užavas tumšais (dark). For information call: +371 63630046 For information call: +371 63630595 www.ventspilsnovads.lv, www.uzavas-alus.lv www.jurkalne.lv

3 Užava Lighthouse – one of the most beautiful lighthouses (1879) in Latvia, open for visitors. For information call: +371 63630573 www.ventspilsnovads.lv

4 Piltene – an old town in the 5 Ugāle Lutheran Church (1693– 6 Museum of Latvia National north of Courland, near the old 1696) – famous for the oldest Resistance Movement in Ugāle with riverbed of the Venta. It was well organ in Latvia (1697–1701). It is its settlement – dugout in the Usma known in the 16th century as the home to the only organ workshop in neighbourhood. centre of the Courland Diocese and Latvia, where street organs are also For information call: +371 26559172 the bishop’s residence. Castle ruins made. www.ventspilsnovads.lv of Piltene can still be seen. For information call: +371 29120601 www.ventspilsnovads.lv www.pipeorgans.lv, www.ventspilsnovads.lv

7 Lake Usma – a popular fishing and sailing spot with the only inland yacht harbour in Latvia. The Moricsala Reserve, the second oldest (1912) in Europe, is also located here. www.ventspilsnovads.lv

8 Vasenieki Bog Path and Pinnacle – opportunity to see plants and animals of bogs and to go on a 22–26 km long bike ride. www.ldf.lv, www.lvm.lv 9 Ventspils Radio Astronomy Centre in Irbene – Events in Ventspils County 25 a former Soviet military town with two parabolic radio in 2013 telescopes still in operation for scientific research, one of which (diameter: 32m) is the biggest one in Northern Europe and the eighth biggest in the world. For information call: +371 29230818, 63656082 http://virac.venta.lv

January 26 Concert-ball of May 25 Opening event of the dance groups in Puze open air stage “Come, Sing, February 16 Valentine’s Day Dance” in Ugāle Dancing in Ance June 21 Ventspils County Solstice March 2 Festival of Vocal Festival in Jūrkalne Ensembles “Blizzard of Songs” July 13 Parish Festival in Puze in Tārgale July 20 Parish Festival in Piltene, March 7 Singing Contest “Tārgales Užava, Ugāle, Pope cālis 2013” in Tārgale July 20 Sports Festival in Jūrkalne March 23 Singing Contest “Ugāles July 27 Parish Festival in Vārve, cālis 2013” in Ugāle Tārgale, Ziras, Ance April 13 Concert of Vocal August 3 Morica Festival in Usma Ensembles with songs by August 10 Pond Festival in Zlēkas Z.Liepiņš in Puze 10 Ovīši Lighthouse – the August 10, 11 Her Days in April 20 Event “Ūsiņš – the Carrier Jūrkalne oldest (1814) navigational of Sun” in Tārgale structure in Latvia that has August 17 Get-together of April 20 Craftsmen’s Singing Families of Ventspils been preserved until now get-together in Ance County in Piltene without visible alterations. It May 4 Festival of Amateur September 21 End of the tourism features an exhibition of the Theatres of Ventspils County season and Apple ball in Jūrkalne “Remove the Mask” in Užava lighthouse’s history. October 12 Opening of the Folk May 18 Whitsunday Concert in House in Usma For information call: Ance +371 26264616, 63600364 October 11 Memorial events for May 25 Children and Family opera singer Alīda Vāne in Tārgale Festival in Piltene www.ventspilsnovads.lv November 2, 3 Festival of Sea Fishing from the Shore in Jūrkalne

11 Pope Manor Ensemble – with the oldest building in the ensemble built in 1653, the manor house dates back to early the 17th century and currently houses the Pope Primary School. In 1996, it was declared a European Cultural Monument. www.ventspilsnovads.lv

12 Zlēkas Manor and Park – manor ensemble built for von Behr family (18th–19th century) with its park. Near the Zlēkas Lutheran Church (1645), which was once known as the “Zlēkas Cathedral” because of its grand interior. Zlēkas Watermill – a historic building (second half of the 19th century) where the legendary Latvian film “The Devil’s Servants in the Devil’s Watermill” was shot. www.ventspilsnovads.lv Discover the Baltic States Convenient travel to Latvia

Naantali Helsinki from Kapellskär St. Petersburg € 380 Ventspils including 2 persons, vehicle and full board* Sassnitz Lübeck Rostock Gdynia

* regular fare for a one-way trip valid in the low season 1.1.–20.6. & 1.9.–31.12.2013 in an ABB2- inside cabin and a vehicle up to a length of 6m. For more prices please log on to www.fi nnlines.com

Travel relaxed and convenient from Lübeck or Sassnitz to Ventspils and further on to St. Petersburg. Enjoy the spacious outside cabins, a classy buffet restaurant, bar, shop, sauna and jacuzzi onboard the Finnlines vessels. Several departures per week.

Finnlines operates 13 combined freight/passenger vessels on 8 routes in the Baltic Sea thus connecting 6 interesting countries around the Baltic Sea the whole year round.

Booking and information: +49 (0) 451-1507-443 or www.fi nnlines.com Check-in in Ventspils: +371 63627107 We are the Baltic.

18.12.2012-200x280 ventspilsbroschüre_NEU*.indd 3 19.12.12 10:27

How to get to Ventspils

By car By yacht Rīga – Ventspils, 190 km on main highway A10 (E22) Ventspils Yacht Port provides full service for yachts Kuldīga – Ventspils, 60 km on highway P108 of any type. Liepāja – Ventspils, 120 km on highways P111, P108, and P110 More information in Ventspils, Medņu iela 40; phone: +371 29287670 By bus The bus service from Riga to Ventspils is available almost By ferry hourly in the comfortable Mercedes buses of Ventspils – Nynäshamn (Sweden) SIA “Ventspils Reiss” or the buses of A/S “Nordeka”. Ventspils – Travemünde (Germany) More information at Ventspils Bus Station, Kuldīgas iela 5; More information and booking at www.stenaline.lv and phone: +371 63622789 and Riga International Bus Station, Stenaline office in Ventspils – Dārzu iela 6, Prāgas iela 1; phone: +371 90000009, 90001111; Ventspils Ferry Terminal; phone: +371 63620782, 63620783 www.autoosta.lv Ventspils – Lübeck (Germany) By plane Ventspils – St.Petersburg (Russia) Business and charter services are provided by More information and booking at www.finnlines.com and Ventspils International Airport. Finnlines office in Ventspils, Sarkanmuižas dambis 25c; More information in Ventspils, Ganību iela 103; phone: +371 22471387 phone: +371 63624262; www.airport.ventspils.lv

Ventspils Tourism Information Centre and Publisher – Ventspils City Council 2013; www.ventspils.lv the Bank of Vents Prepared by – Ventspils Tourism Information Centre 2013; Address: Dārzu iela 6, Ventspils, LV-3601 www.visitventspils.com Phone: +371 63622263, 29232226 Photo – Archive of Ventspils Tourism Information Centre, Fax: +371 63607665 DDB Worldwide Latvia E-mail: [email protected] Cartography, design – SIA “Karšu izdevniecība Jāņa sēta”; www.kartes.lv Bank of Vents Branch Printed – SIA “ADverts”, www.adverts.lv Hotel of the Olympic Centre “Ventspils” Translation – SIA “DM grupa” Lielais prospekts 33, Ventspils Phone: +371 63628032 Ventspils County www.visitventspils.com Council