The International Mask Traditions Festival took place in Aizpute, Latvia, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of mask traditions from Latvia and neighboring Lithuania. The third day of the festival featured master classes, traditional dances, and visits to various homesteads, culminating in a grand parade that highlighted the diversity and significance of around 20 mask groups from different districts. Attendees prepared for the festival's most vibrant moments where these groups would showcase their unique customs and the specific times they traditionally perform their mask rituals, emphasizing that such joint gatherings are rare due to various seasonal traditions.

Participants, including representatives from the Plakanciema Friends’ Society, explained the traditions behind some of the featured masks, such as the 'miežvilki' and 'pelnu āžus.' The 'miežvilki' are an ancient mask group symbolizing protection of the crops from wildlife, while the 'pelnu āžus' are associated with fertility rituals. The festival not only serves as a platform for cultural exchange but also aims to educate the public about the importance of these traditions in ensuring agricultural prosperity and community cohesion. In addition to the celebratory events, a conference discussing the historical and cultural significance of mask traditions was also held, fostering a deeper appreciation for this unique aspect of Latvian folklore.

The Aizpute festival illustrates how local customs can bring communities together and maintain cultural heritage. As the participants shared their knowledge, stories, and practices, the festival promoted understanding of the symbolic meanings behind these masks, which reflect not only the agricultural calendar but also the people’s hopes for fertility and abundance. The emphasis on both community and continuity reflects a broader trend in Latvia towards preserving and celebrating local heritages in an increasingly globalized world.