Abgunste Manor to host “Once Upon a Wonderland” festival

On August 16, Abgunste Manor will hold its annual manor festival, themed “Once Upon a Wonderland” this year. Visitors entering through a symbolic Rabbit Hole will encounter a host of fairy-tale characters, including Alice, Sprīdītis, Hedgehog in the Fog, Shrek, Snow White, Pippi Longstocking, Little Red Riding Hood, the Little Prince and others.

Manor owner Asnāte Avotniece says the idea behind the festival is to bring all fairy tales together in one place on a single day, giving everyone who still believes in wonders a chance to experience Wonderland. According to her, this year's festival is especially aimed at adults — in the rush of everyday life, people often forget to use their imagination and simply enjoy themselves, and children and fairy tales serve as a reminder that adults, too, need moments of fantasy and belief in wonders. Avotniece herself will take on the role of the Mother of the Forest during the event.

Programme and activities

Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy a Drawing Theatre performance, songs from theatre productions and films performed by Juris Hiršs, and a musical story by Goran Gora built around the works of poet Imants Ziedonis. The festival will close with a performance by the band “Mazais Princis” (Little Prince).

One of this year's highlights is an interactive game in which participants must find fairy-tale characters, complete various tasks and uncover secrets hidden around the manor grounds. The most successful participants will take part in a prize draw at the end of the day.

Abgunste Manor is also inviting volunteers to join the event, offering a chance to help organize the festival and take on the role of one of the Wonderland characters. More information is available on the manor's website, and tickets can be purchased online.