Ideas for Exciting and Family-Friendly Activities During the School Holidays in Aizkraukle Municipality

The calendar page has turned again – this time with a gentle rustle, reminiscent of closing school notebooks before a long-awaited break. The air carries a special feeling – a touch of freedom, a hint of adventure, and a little sweet laziness, well deserved after diligent work. For students, a week approaches where mornings can start more slowly, and days can unfold in brighter, richer colors.

The break promises not only rest but also a chance to see the world from a different perspective. Suddenly, familiar paths become adventure trails, library shelves turn into secret doors to other times and continents, and walks transform into leisurely moments for conversation.

During this week, Aizkraukle Municipality breathes differently. There is space for active movement and laughter, as well as creative activities where ideas sparkle like the spring sun dancing on the water. It is a week to try something new, revisit forgotten corners, meet friends at a different pace, and immerse yourself in what everyday rush often leaves unnoticed.

The Aizkraukle Municipality Tourism Department invites you to fill this week with adventures, discoveries, and joy – so that when school resumes, your backpack carries not only notebooks but also new experiences and stories.

Turn Back Time!

• History and Art Museum of Aizkraukle "Kalna Ziedi" 

Discover history and explore the museum’s exhibition, which covers the period from ancient times to the first half of the 20th century. The Exhibition Hall features rotating temporary exhibitions.

In the museum garden, visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, observe the garden coming to life, and see medieval ring crosses, stone sculptures, and a sundial. The garden also displays a remaining section of the trunk of the Sacred Oak (Svētozols), which once grew nearby on the banks of the Daugava River. The tree suffered damage over time, and the preserved part of its trunk has now been placed in a safe location within the museum grounds for visitors to view.

"Kalna Ziedi", Aizkraukle, Phone: (+371) 65123351, GPS: 56.599152, 25.272106

• Exhibition “Soviet Years”

The exhibition of the Aizkraukle Museum of History and Art in Aizkraukle Parish is the largest exhibition in the Baltic States dedicated to the cultural and historical heritage of the 1950s–1980s of the 20th century. It is spread across three floors and covers an area of 1,060 m².

The aim of the exhibition is to present the life of people in the Soviet era in all its diversity — everyday life, work and leisure, education, and culture. Here visitors can imagine what the daily life of our predecessors was like and learn how the town of Aizkraukle and the Pļaviņas Hydroelectric Power Plant were developed.

20 Kalna Street, Aizkraukle, Phone: (+371) 65123351, GPS: 56.615116, 25.224726

• Odziena Manor 

The school holidays are a perfect time for shared discoveries. Odziena Manor invites families to embark on an educational adventure with guided tours of the castle, the manor complex, and the Brewery Building (Pilsbrūzis), where engaging stories will delight both children and adults.

The manor environment allows visitors to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Meanwhile, technology enthusiasts will be especially impressed by the remarkable collection of vehicles and technical equipment from the last century. On display are more than 20 Soviet-era cars, motorcycles, cameras, radios, household appliances, and even two formula racing cars — a real surprise for visitors of different generations.

If you wish to stay longer, accommodation is available nearby at the Krogusmāja guesthouse, where you can enjoy a peaceful countryside retreat.

“Krogusmāja”, Odziena, Vietalva Parish, Phone: (+371) 20533333, GPS: 56.712337, 25.685585

• Mazzalve History Exposition "Ainas" 

Historical materials are displayed in three rooms. Visitors can see the secretary desk of the clairvoyant Eižens Finks, the souvenir cow collection from around the world donated by Mārīte Grigāne, as well as the former and current house names of the area, which have always received great appreciation from visitors. See history with your own eyes!

3 Liepu Street, Ērberģe, Mazzalve Parish, Phone: (+371) 26325349, GPS: 56.368137, 25.018578

Discover History in a Modern Way

• Who said learning about history has to be boring? Today, with the help of digital technologies and engaging exhibitions, history can be explored in a particularly exciting way. At the Aizkraukle Region and Koknese Tourism Information Centre, visitors can discover the history of the Koknese medieval castle ruins and the ancient valleys of the Daugava and Pērse rivers through interactive displays and informative models.

At the unique Irši Manor Barn – Magazina, visitors can explore the history of the largest Baltic German colony, Hiršenhof, through a new and engaging exhibition.

Aizkraukle Municipality and Koknese Tourism Information Centre, 7 1905.gada Street, Koknese, Phone: (+371) 65161296

Irši Manor Barn - Magazina, “Magazīna”, Irši, Phone: (+371) 29275412, GPS: 56.791496, 25.593264

Discover and Explore!

• Jaunjelgava Tourism Information Point 

The Tourism Information Point is located in the historic centre of Jaunjelgava. Here visitors can learn about the history of the town and digitally see how the banks of the Daugava looked before the construction of the Pļaviņas Hydroelectric Power Plant and the flooding of the area between Aizkraukle and Koknese. Visitors can also virtually explore 30 tourism sites in Aizkraukle Region and see the current temporary exhibition on site – at the moment, an exhibition by the association “Mans tautastērps” dedicated to the journeys of traditional Latvian folk costumes around the world. The exhibition tells stories about folk costumes that travelled into exile with their owners after World War II, costumes that have travelled the world and returned home, and costumes created recently to celebrate Latvian identity, family stories, and cultural heritage. 

Jelgavas iela 33, Jaunjelgava, Phone: (+371) 27366222, GPS: 56.616924, 25.082409

• Mazzalve Parish Exhibition Hall

In March, the exhibition hall presents a painting exhibition by artist Ligita Caune. The artist says about her work:

"I love my homeland and cannot help but paint it. This is my declaration of love to the nature of Latvia – its forests and hills, grey skies, misty meadows, the white country roads of Sēlija, the sea, and the lakes of Latgale…"

Enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Latvia captured in paintings, where time seems to stand still.

2 Liepu Street, Ērberģe, Mazzalve Parish, Phone: (+371) 29339832, GPS: 56.368941, 25.018428

• Skrīveri Dendrological Park 

In the past, various tree species from the temperate zone of the entire Northern Hemisphere were planted in this park. Today, around 250 of these tree species can still be seen here. From the manor period, several elements have been preserved, including the castle stairs, a stone card table, a tea terrace, a fountain, and the ruins of the manor courtyard.

This is a wonderful place for a peaceful and scenic walk in the fresh air.

Skrīveri Dendrological Park, Skrīveri Parish, GPS: 56.6175, 25.053959

• Romalds Gurklis’ Wooden Figure Garden 
  In the wooden sculpture garden created by Romalds Gurklis, visitors can find various characters from films and cartoons. Here you can see Shrek figures as well as a large wooden Viking ship displayed in front of the house. A place that will delight both children and adults. “Sproģi”, Zalve Parish
  Phone: (+371) 26479814
  GPS: 56.271397, 25.174673

Boost Your Energy!

• Horse Rides "Dzintaru Zirgi" 

School holidays are a great opportunity to fulfil a childhood dream — riding a horse. At the “Dzintaru zirgi” farm ("Amber Horses")), families can enjoy peaceful and heartwarming encounters with these noble animals, whether by going for a ride or simply getting to know their daily life. Riding lessons are offered for beginners as well as riders with some previous experience, so everyone is welcome — both those who will ride a horse for the first time and those who wish to improve their skills. The farm also offers opportunities to celebrate birthdays or organise photo sessions for special occasions. This is a place to create wonderful holiday memories together in the heart of nature. 

“Dzintari”, Maiļupsala, Aiviekste Parish, Phone: (+371) 26323070, GPS: 56.62212, 25.77496

• Koknese Sports Centre 

Koknese Sports Centre is one of the largest sports service providers in the surrounding area, offering a wide range of opportunities for physical activity and health improvement. Visitors have access to a sports hall and a modern gym.

Particularly popular is the swimming pool complex, which includes two pools – a 25-metre swimming pool and a children’s pool measuring 10 × 5 metres – as well as a jacuzzi, sauna, and steam bath.

More information, opening hours, and price list: www.koknesessportacentrs.lv

27a Parka Street, Koknese, Aizkraukle Region, Phone: (+371) 65161790, GPS: 56.643776, 25.423481

• Sarmīte Stables 

If you would like to try a new hobby and spend your weekend actively, “Sarmīte’s Stables” in Skrīveri offers horse riding and photo sessions with horses for both children and adults, as well as training and basic riding lessons for young riders.

“Lielkažoki 1”, Skrīveri Parish, Phone: (+371) 29748079, GPS: 56.655704, 25.13965

Go Outdoors!

• Walks along the Jaunjelgava Promenade

This is a wonderful place for a spring walk. The promenade stretches along the banks of the Daugava River for about two kilometres and invites visitors to enjoy a peaceful walk close to nature.

From the promenade, beautiful views open up over the Daugava and the surrounding landscape. It is a pleasant place both for a quiet walk alone and for spending time with family or friends.

Jaunjelgava, GPS: 56.620621, 25.088406

• Walk along the Pļaviņas Flood Protection Dam 

During the school holidays, it is worth planning a relaxing walk in the fresh air. The nearly two-kilometre-long Pļaviņas flood protection dam is a perfect place for family walks, conversations, and time together.

The dam protects the town from spring floods while also offering wide views of the Daugava River and the surrounding landscape. Particularly beautiful moments can be experienced at sunset, when the sky fills with warm colours.

Visitors can take photos at the “Moment by the Daugava” photo frame and learn more by listening to the audio guide about the Raftsmen’s Trail.

GPS: 56.616631, 25.724501

Go on an Adventure!

• “Roadgames” Game in Koknese Park and Garden of Destiny (Likteņdārzs)

With “Roadgames”, it is possible to discover familiar places from a new perspective and uncover hidden gems. In the Koknese area, two Roadgames adventures are available – one in Koknese Park and another in Garden of Destiny.

All you need to do is dress according to the weather and set off on an adventure.

More information: Roadgames - Garden of Destiny and Roadgames - Koknese.

Taste Something Delicious!

• “Skrīveri Home-Made Ice Cream” cafe

During an educational tour, visitors are invited to discover the history of ice cream, learn about the secrets of its production, taste up to 20 different types of ice cream, and even learn how to make it themselves.

It is also a wonderful place for birthday celebrations – with plenty of ice cream, a festive atmosphere, and a special sparkler that makes the celebration unforgettable for both children and adults.

Daugavas iela 96, Skrīveri, Phone: (+371) 28361561, GPS: 56.648941, 25.120544

If your walk turns into a longer trip, you can find ideas for meals or accommodation here:

Where to eat: https://visitaizkraukle.lv/en/where-to-eat

Where to stay: https://visitaizkraukle.lv/en/where-to-stay