Riga in Summer

The Mystery of Banksy – A Genius Mind

He’s world famous but still a mystery – Banksy, the Bristol-born and to this day anonymous graffiti artist and painter, known for challenging the boundaries of the art market, who has been causing a sensation with his work for many years. Ever since its premiere in Munich in March 2021 more than 2,2 million visitors saw the exhibition about the exceptional artist in several European metropolises and made it one of the most frequented and renowed shows about the street art superstar worldwide. “The Mystery of Banksy – A Genius Mind” will now be on display in Latvia for the very first time! From July 18, 2025 the doors of the Vidzeme Market in Riga will be open for visitors!

Riga's Birthday celebration

On 16 August, the capital will host a full day of festivities featuring concerts, markets, sports events, and light shows.

Dome Square will open at 10:00 with a crafts market, where artisans from across Latvia will offer both traditional and modern creations. From 14:00, Old Riga will be filled with street musicians, mimes, and performances of various styles, while the 11 November Embankment will transform into the celebration hub with art installations, creative workshops, food stations, an antique car parade, poetry contests, and concerts. Performers include Katrīna Dimanta & Zeltrači, Būū, Musiqq, Intars Busulis, and more. From 22:00, three DJ stages will offer diverse music genres late into the night.

Vērmanes Garden will feature theatre performances, children’s concerts, and magic by the Pecolli family, while the evening “Riga Estrada” programme will bring popular Latvian artists and beloved songs. Victory Park will host “Alternative Riga” with creative workshops, sports shows, and concerts by alternative musicians.

Sports fans can enjoy the “Krastu mačs” basketball tournament on Esplanade (16–17 Aug) and a Football Festival by Riga Congress Hall, featuring youth games, a Neighbourhood Championship, a Star Cup with well-known personalities, and interactive activities for spectators.

From the evening of 15 August, musical fountains “Serenade for Riga” will light up the City Canal (21:00–01:00), creating a magical atmosphere of water, light, and music.

EuroBasket 2025 - European Basketball Championship for men

The FIBA EuroBasket is the flagship European basketball tournament organized by the International Basketball Federation’s European division. First held in 1935, EuroBasket is the most prestigious basketball competition on the continent.

The upcoming FIBA EuroBasket 2025 will be the 42nd edition of the tournament and will take place from August 27 to September 14, 2025, across Cyprus, Finland, Poland, and Latvia.

Latvia will host one of the four group stages, while Riga will serve as the official venue for the knockout stage, featuring the top 16 teams in the championship, from September 6 to 14.

Get ready for world-class basketball action and a celebration of European sportsmanship in the heart of the Baltics!

Boat Tours

During the summer season, visitors to Riga can explore the city from a unique perspective by taking a ride on the Riga Canal boats. The route winds along the picturesque city canal and the Daugava River, offering beautiful views of the Old Town, parks, bridges, and major landmarks. It’s a peaceful and romantic way to enjoy Riga’s sights from the water.

Spīķeri Flea Market 2025 – Discover Vintage Finds & Hidden Treasures in Riga

From antique interior gems to stylish wardrobe pieces, the Spīķeri Flea Market in Riga’s creative quarter offers an incredibly diverse selection of items. Spend your Saturday in the atmospheric Spīķeri district, give second-hand treasures a new life, and embrace the saying: one person’s clutter is another’s treasure.

Market Dates for 2025:
– May 17 & May 31
– June 14 & June 28
– July 12 & July 26
– August 9 & August 23
– September 6

Enjoy browsing vintage furniture, clothing, home décor, books, collectibles, and more in a lively outdoor setting just steps away from Riga’s Central Market and Daugava riverside.

Don’t miss this popular weekend event for bargain hunters and design lovers alike!

Riga from above - take a ride on the Ferris wheel

Discover Riga from a whole new perspective aboard Riga Rise, the city’s brand-new 65-meter-high Ferris wheel, located in the heart of the recently renovated Victory Park on the left bank of the Daugava River.

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Riga’s skyline, take a peaceful walk through the park, and see the capital in a whole new light. The wheel features 30 enclosed cabins, each ride lasts approximately 15 minutes, and the attraction can accommodate up to 240 visitors at a time. Riga Rise is open all year round.

Ticket Prices:
– Adults – €17
– Children (ages 3–12) – €13
– Students (with valid ISIC card) and seniors – €15

Plan your visit and take in one of the most stunning views in Riga – from above.

Discover Riga's nightlife!

Riga comes alive after dark during the summer months, offering a dynamic and diverse nightlife scene that attracts both locals and visitors. Whether you're searching for the best bars in Riga, lively nightclubs, or unique open-air venues, the city has something for every taste and mood.

From the historic charm of Old Town (Vecrīga) to the creative energy of Miera iela and Āgenskalns, Riga’s neighborhoods are buzzing with possibilities. Enjoy summer cocktails on rooftop terraces, dance to live DJ sets, explore local music events, or relax in cozy courtyards with live performances.

Looking for what to do in Riga at night or where to go when the sun sets? Explore our curated guide to Riga’s top nightlife spots, summer events, and hidden gems that make the city one of the best nightlife destinations in Northern Europe.

Discover the best places to experience Riga’s summer nightlife right HERE!

Taste the summer goodies

When you visit one of Riga's favorite market squares, you know you will enjoy fresh berries, vegetables, greens, and hearty conversations there. An authentic experience awaits you at the Central Market Night Market, which operates from 17:00. There, farmers offer the best and tastiest produce to buyers on summer evenings. During the day, right here in the Central Market, you can not only savor the fresh and delicious aromas but also delight your eyes with colorful summer goodies.

Heading towards Pārdaugava, you must visit the picturesque Āgenskalns Market, which has become a favorite meeting and shopping place for both local residents and tourists. Here you can buy not only fresh products but also enjoy a delicious meal or taste refreshing cocktails on the second floor of the market, as well as experience the events held frequently during summertime!

On Saturdays, you can go to the Kalnciema Quarter Market, where visitors will be delighted with a rich selection for their palate, hobbies, and home. Here you will find a diverse range of artworks created by craftsmen, homemakers, caterers, and other masters.

Picnic in the park

Having a picnic together and getting away from home is a great way to enjoy a day outdoors. Whether you want to spend the day in sunny Lucavsala or seek refuge from the heat in the shady parks of Riga, enjoying an ice-cold latte and watermelon with friends and family will create fabulous memories to cherish. If you want to enjoy a refreshing cup of coffee and snacks at your picnic, the Bakeries and coffee guide in Riga will help you. And remember, if you want to enjoy amazingly tasty and cool ice cream, head to Molberts!

Experience the atmosphere of summer terraces

When the summer sun lights up the streets and buildings of Riga, staying indoors feels almost sinful. If you're looking to experience the city’s best outdoor terraces, Riga offers a rich selection of restaurants, rooftop bars, and charming cafés perfect for cooling off with a refreshing drink or enjoying a delicious meal in the open air.

In Old Town Riga (Vecrīga), you’ll find a wide variety of terraces catering to every mood. For a cocktail evening with DJ beats, head to B-Bārs. For modern classics, Kaļķu Vārti offers a stylish terrace experience. Take in views of the rooftops from Gutenbergs Rooftop Terrace, or discover the cozy, hidden courtyard at Parunāsim. Kafe'teeka – ideal for coffee, cake, and light refreshments. For premium seafood and regional delicacies, Barents Terrace delivers a fine dining experience with a distinctly local touch.

Beyond Old Town, Riga’s City Centre and Quiet Centre are home to equally impressive terraces. Try Whitehouse, Restaurant Osta (with river views), Anna’s Garden, Herbārijs, Zefīrs, Fabrika, or enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the Berga Bazaar courtyards.

Discover the full list of Riga’s most beautiful summer terraces here!