In May, Bārta rafters will prove they can float logs down a river better than Riga can run trams on tracks

While Riga is still learning how to properly place trams on tracks, South Kurzeme region tourism expert Dace Gailīte has announced that Bārta will host an event in May where people will voluntarily climb onto logs and float down the river. This is called a 'tradition'.

The festivities will begin on May 2nd with what organizers call a 'ceremonial opening and parade,' but which essentially means several men will try to tie logs together while everyone else watches and hopes the construction doesn't fall apart in the middle of the river. 'We want to preserve the rafting craft for future generations,' says Gailīte, as if there were a huge demand today for people who know how to ride on pieces of wood.

During the event, visitors will be able to participate in such 'traditional' activities as balancing on logs and boot throwing. Exactly the skills that will be useful in today's job market. While in Liepāja on Pētera Street people meet in cafes and talk about the future, in Bārta they throw boots and hope they don't get wet.

The climax of the celebration will be on May 3rd, when a real raft will set off from the 'Bārtas krasts' glamping site to the 'Ods' recreation base. Organizers invite everyone to join with their boats, because apparently one large wooden construction on the river isn't dangerous enough. 'This is a unique cultural event,' claims Gailīte, as if rafts were Latvia's exclusive invention, rather than something used worldwide for thousands of years.

Meanwhile, while Riga politicians are still trying to figure out why their trams can't overcome even a small hill, Bārta rafters will prove that with the right approach, you can move through water using only wood and hope. Perhaps they should consult with 'Rīgas satiksme' about developing efficient transportation solutions.