More than 1,300 guests, including Latvian and U.S. officials, diplomats, business leaders, and families, gathered in Mežaparks for AmCham Latvia's annual Independence Day celebration, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States.
On Saturday, July 4, the American Chamber of Commerce in Latvia (AmCham) welcomed more than 1,300 guests, including distinguished Latvian and U.S. leaders, members of the diplomatic corps, business executives, and families, to John Tully's residence in Mežaparks to commemorate the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America.
Marking a quarter millennium since the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, this year's celebration honored the enduring ideals of freedom, democracy, innovation, and opportunity while highlighting the strong and longstanding partnership between Latvia and the United States.
Hosted by AmCham President John Tully, the event featured remarks from Speaker of the Saeima Daiga Mieriņa, Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs, U.S. Ambassador Melissa Argyros, and the event's co-host, BluOr Bank.
“I thank the United States for 250 years of courage and conviction, and for its unwavering support for Latvia’s freedom and democracy,” said Speaker of the Saeima Daiga Mieriņa. “Latvia and the United States have significant potential to deepen cooperation in high-tech sectors, including energy, information technology, fintech, science, biotechnology, and high value-added manufacturing.”
Prime Minister Andris Kulbergs underscored the importance of the U.S.-Latvia partnership, particularly in the areas of security, economic growth, and investment. “The United States helps safeguard the most valuable thing we have: our freedom and independence, through the presence of American soldiers and boots on the ground in Latvia,” he said. “The United States is a symbol of freedom and strength, and I hope it will become Latvia’s top strategic partner not only in security and defense, but also in business, investment, trade, energy, education, and cultural and social exchange.”
U.S. Ambassador Melissa Argyros highlighted the importance of strengthening connections between the two countries. “Diplomacy doesn’t only live in conference rooms. It flourishes through business, shared meals, honest conversations, and the trust that grows between free people and free nations,” she said. “As we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, let’s continue building the connections that will help both Latvia and the United States prosper.”
Throughout the afternoon, guests enjoyed a vibrant program of entertainment, traditional American cuisine, and family-friendly activities celebrating American culture and community. The picnic featured live performances by Valters Gleške and the Jazz Quartet, alongside a selection of American favorites, including steak, barbecue, hot dogs, McDonald's burgers, ice cream, popcorn, and Coca-Cola. Interactive activities for all ages included children's workshops and health checks, airbrush tattoos, basketball games, Meloria's Teddy Bear Atelier, and a charity tent highlighting the work of this year's beneficiary organizations. Sponsor-hosted activities, games, and entertainment added to the festive atmosphere, reflecting the spirit of America250 and the enduring friendship between Latvia and the United States
A cherished tradition of the annual celebration, the charity raffle raised funds for Bērnu slimnīcas fonds, Latvijas Audžuģimeņu biedrība, Ronald McDonald Māja Latvijā and SOS Bērnu ciemati Latvijā. Together, the more than EUR 7,000 raised during the picnic will help these organizations continue their work to improve the health, well-being, and future prospects of children and families throughout Latvia.
The event concluded with a ceremonial birthday cake and a rendition of "Happy Birthday" in honor of America's 250th birthday, celebrating not only this historic milestone but also the enduring friendship and shared democratic values that continue to unite Latvia and the United States.
The event was made possible through the generous support of our sponsors.
Co-Hosts: BluOr Bank, McDonald's.
Gold Sponsors: Belam, Coca-Cola, Citadele, Eco Baltia Vide, EPAM, MikroTik, LeverX, Latvia Sotheby's International Realty, Kiwi Bar, Profesora Skrides Klīnika.
Silver Sponsors: AbbVie, DAN Communication, Gosselin Mobility Baltics, Luminor, Meta, Reaton Food, Roche Latvia, Strategic Staffing Solutions International.
Supporters: ATU Duty Free, Encompass Digital Media, Forum Cinemas, Grand Hotel Kempinski, Jūrmala SPA Hotel, Latvijas Finieris, NCH Advisors, Radisson Blu Daugava Hotel, Mars, Meloria, Mogotel Hotel Group, Pullman Riga Old Town.
AmCham Latvia is a leading business association representing more than 160 U.S., Latvian, and international companies committed to strengthening economic ties between Latvia and the United States. Through advocacy, collaboration, and thought leadership, AmCham promotes trade, investment, innovation, and the development of human capital while supporting a competitive, resilient, and prosperous business environment. More information: www.amcham.lv
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