Returnees Invited to a Gathering in Vecpiebalga to Explore Cinema History, Porcelain Art and Stories of Returning Home

On Sunday, 8 November, the Vidzeme Planning Region invites returnees, their families and anyone interested to join the next networking event in the “Visiting Returnees” (Ciemos pie atbraucējiem) series, this time taking place in Vecpiebalga Parish, Cēsis Municipality. Participants will have the opportunity to explore the history of cinema, visit the Piebalga Porcelain Factory, meet other returnees in an informal atmosphere, share experiences and hear the story of chef Juris Latišenoks and his return to Latvia.

The “Visiting Returnees” event series aims to bring returnees together, strengthen their sense of belonging to Vidzeme and encourage new friendships and connections. Returning to Latvia often marks the beginning of a new chapter in life, where support from others and the opportunity to meet people with similar experiences can be especially valuable. These gatherings provide a space to share both the challenges and successes of returning home while discovering the places, people and entrepreneurial initiatives of Vidzeme.

Exploring Cinema History and Piebalga Porcelain

The event will begin at 11:00 at “Kino ferma” (Cinema Farm), which features a unique exhibition of historical cinema equipment and a screening room. During the guided tour, participants will discover film projectors and cameras from the previous century, learn about filmmaking and film projection, and see authentic film projectors in operation. The collector's engaging stories will be accompanied by screenings of film excerpts, offering a fascinating insight into the history of cinema and the development of film technology.

After exploring the world of cinema, participants will visit the Piebalga Porcelain Factory, located in the former dairy building of Vecpiebalga Manor. There, they will have the opportunity to learn about the creation of locally made porcelain products and the region's craftsmanship traditions.

Conversations About Returning to Latvia with Chef Juris Latišenoks

The event will conclude at the café “Vecpiebalgas ūdensrozes”, where participants will gather for a shared meal, informal conversations and an opportunity to exchange personal experiences.

Chef Juris Latišenoks will share his story of returning to Latvia after spending five years living and working in Norway, where he gained valuable professional experience in the restaurant industry. After returning to Latvia, Juris pursued entrepreneurship in the hospitality sector, developing several dining establishments, including the café “Vecpiebalgas ūdensrozes”. During the gathering, he will talk about his life abroad, his decision to return to Latvia and his experience of building a business in Vidzeme.

All participants are encouraged to join the conversations, share their own experiences and make new connections. Families with children are especially welcome, as are those who have recently returned to Latvia or are still considering making the move.

Registration and Practical Information

The event will take place on Sunday, 8 November, in Vecpiebalga Parish, Cēsis Municipality.
Start: 11:00 (arrival from 10:45).
Meeting point: “Kino ferma”, “Dadži”, Vecpiebalga Parish, Cēsis Municipality, Latvia.
Registration: By Friday, 6 November, at 16:00, via email at inga.madzule@vidzeme.lv.
Participation: Returnees, their families and anyone interested are welcome.
Please note that small fees will apply at each location visited.

The event is organised by the Vidzeme Planning Region as part of its ongoing “Visiting Returnees” initiative, aimed at strengthening connections, cooperation and a sense of community among people who have returned to Latvia.

Translated by AI