On October 11, a powerful and energetic drum show took place at Vērmanes Garden in Riga during a live broadcast connection with the Baltic Pavilion in Osaka, right next to the digital installation “Open the Door to EXPO 2025!”. The performance by Drumline Latvia allowed both the on-site audience in Riga and pavilion visitors in Japan to experience modern interpretations of traditional Latvian rhythms, as well as musical themes inspired by different world cultures.
This marked the final event in a series of activities centered around the specially created EXPO digital installation, which not only introduced Latvian cultural values and traditions to visitors at the Baltic Pavilion in Japan, but also gave locals and visitors in Riga the opportunity to be a part of the global exhibition here in Latvia.
The “Open the Door to EXPO” concept is a natural extension of the Baltic Pavilion’s main theme – “We Are One”, emphasizing the synergy between people, nature, and technology, as well as the unity of our region and the world in working together towards a more sustainable and connected future.
Lāsma Līdaka, Latvia’s Commissioner General for EXPO 2025, highlights the importance of these events and the daily live connections as proof that technological and creative solutions can serve as bridges between cultures, becoming part of a dialogue that transcends borders.
“It was essential for us to show the Baltic Pavilion visitors here in Japan that, even though we are separated by thousands of kilometers, we are closer and more connected than we imagine. This digital portal has showcased Latvia as a creative, innovative, and interaction-driven country – one that can be reached in seconds through technology, which is especially crucial for building long-term economic relations,” says Lāsma Līdaka.
Revealing Latvia’s Spirit Through Drumbeats
With a specially curated musical performance, Drumline Latvia – the only professional marching drumline in the Baltics – delighted audiences both in Riga’s Vērmanes Garden and at the Baltic Pavilion in Osaka. The concert began with rhythms rooted in Latvian folk music, symbolizing deep cultural heritage, and gradually transitioned into global beats that unite different nations and traditions.
Andžejs Grauds, drummer and founder of the largest drum school in the Baltics, emphasized that drumming is a universal language – one that communicates Latvia’s energy, vitality, and creative spirit, while building a musical bridge between local culture and the world: “Our message is about developing the modern music scene with a focus on creating something that resonates across cultures. We also think a lot about continuity – not just passing on skills to the next generation, but also conveying messages in a way that keeps Latvia in the spotlight long after the performance ends. Participating in events like this also strengthens our national identity and pride. It’s important for me that the children and young people from our drum school understand that what we do together can touch people’s hearts around the world.”
Hina, a Japanese visitor to the Baltic Pavilion who attended the event with her mother and daughter, shared her emotions: “We were absolutely thrilled! It was an emotional rollercoaster – at times I had goosebumps, and at other moments, as a mother, I had tears of joy and pride watching your talented children perform with such passion. This visit helped me understand that Latvia is a land of contrasts – I was deeply inspired by your peaceful love of nature, your rich traditions, your modern and innovative way of storytelling, and the explosive energy we witnessed today. Thank you for letting us peek into your world,” Hina said with gratitude.
Through EXPO to the World – Stepping Into the Doorway of Opportunity
Andžejs Grauds underlines how significant Latvia’s participation in global events like EXPO is for the development of national culture: “We may be a small nation geographically, but we have great talents and achievements. Participation in events of this scale marks an important checkpoint for Latvia – one that can prove crucial in future international relations. For me and my team, this has been important from the very first day we opened our drum school. Our mission has always been to bring joy not only to our fellow Latvians but to people around the globe. That’s why we’re truly honored to take part in this project – to carry Latvia’s name and rhythms far beyond its borders.”
As EXPO 2025 Osaka nears its conclusion, the Baltic Pavilion is preparing to welcome its final guests on October 13. The digital installation “Open the Door to EXPO 2025!” will host its last live broadcast on October 12 from 12:00 to 14:00, allowing visitors at Vērmanes Garden in Riga to take one final look inside the daily life of the Baltic Pavilion and interact with its guests.
Still, EXPO serves only as a launchpad for long-term success and collaboration – the door to the world remains wide open.
About EXPO 2025 Osaka
EXPO 2025 Osaka is one of the world’s most important international exhibitions for shaping national image and promoting export capacity, addressing not only economic but also globally significant social issues.
With participation from 160 countries and 9 international organizations, and an expected visitor count exceeding 28 million from around the globe, the event serves as a unique platform for countries and regions to showcase their achievements while combining global knowledge and ideas to create new technologies and solutions to the world's biggest challenges. The main theme of EXPO 2025 is “Designing Future Society for Our Lives”, while the Baltic Pavilion carries the subtheme “Saving Lives”, focusing on improving quality of life through cutting-edge technologies and high environmental standards. In addition to Latvia’s participation in the exposition, a comprehensive business programme is underway, offering Latvian companies opportunities to engage in sectoral exhibitions, events, and trade missions across Japan – all contributing to stronger nation branding and export potential.