On 25 July, the Dzintari Concert Hall welcomed the opening night of Laima Rendezvous Jūrmala 2025 – three evenings dedicated to live music, unexpected duets and an atmosphere unlike any other, all under the artistic direction of Laima Vaikule. 

A highlight of the evening was the now traditional duet of Laima Vaikule and Andrey Makarevich – a heartfelt performance that has become one of the festival’s most cherished moments. Mario Biondi mesmerised the audience with his deep, velvety voice, while Hollywood singer and actor Robert Davi brought a touch of classic elegance with his renditions of Frank Sinatra’s timeless hits, including My Way and New York, New York. Laima Vaikule captivated the hall not only with her performance but also with her signature refined stage looks, while Zarina Altinbayeva enchanted the audience with the strength and grace of her vocals. Cuban artist Roberto Kel Torres infused the night with vibrant Latin rhythms and infectious energy. 

The first evening also featured Gio Pika, making his debut at the festival, the crowd favourites Sunstroke Project, Estonia’s rising star Alika, Latvian vocalist Jussendo, the vocal group Framest, Laima Voice finalist Diana Paško, the talented Arpi Alto with Emil Khachaturian, as well as beloved Latvian performers Jānis Stībelis and Normunds Rutulis. All performances were delivered live with full orchestral accompaniment – a tradition that has defined Laima Rendezvous since its inception. 

Adding to the special atmosphere was a distinguished audience. Among the guests were Alla Pugacheva, Maksim Galkin, Oleg Tinkov, Pyotr Aven and many others who came to celebrate live music and the unique spirit of the festival. 

“Each evening of this festival is a celebration of music, emotion and connection. Thank you to everyone who shared this unforgettable night with us,” said Laima Vaikule. 

Tonight, 26 July, the audience can look forward to a special event – Semyon Slepakov’s first solo concert in Latvia in four years. Tickets for Saturday’s performance are still available in limited numbers, while the Sunday gala is completely sold out but will be streamed live on the festival’s official YouTube channel and later broadcast on television. 

Laima Rendezvous Jūrmala 2025 takes place from 25 to 27 July at the Dzintari Concert Hall. The organisers thank the Jūrmala City Council, Lido restaurant for catering, Inchcape Motors Latvia – a leading international automotive retail and aftersales service provider – for transportation support, as well as Kartina.TV, STV, Tilts and Venden for their partnership.