Christmas in Riga

Christmas Decorations in the City

As the Advent season begins in Riga, the city transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland. From historic boulevards to quiet neighbourhood streets, festive lights illuminate the dark winter evenings, filling the city with warmth and the anticipation of Christmas.

As Christmas approaches, beautifully decorated Christmas trees gradually appear throughout Riga, each with its own unique character and design. Together, they create the magical feeling of an entire festive forest spread across the city.

During the Christmas season, Riga becomes a city of twinkling lights and peaceful winter magic – a place where festive strolls, the aroma of mulled wine and glowing light installations come together to create an unforgettable Christmas atmosphere.

Traditional Christmas market

Weeks before Christmas are a particularly lovely time to be in Riga. In a traditional Christmas market, which will be open from November 28th until January 4th at Dome Square, mulled wine becomes the drink of choice as the aromas of cinnamon, ginger, and roasted almonds fill the air. This year, the Riga Christmas market will be even more amazing than ever. Here you can find vendors from whom you can purchase one-of-a-kind gifts, as well as a variety of mouthwatering traditional and street foods and specialty cocktails. Folklore ensembles, musical groups, and DJs will also be performing here, and there will also be workshops with Santa's little helpers. We would also like to proudly note that the Riga Christmas Market has entered the top of Europe's best Christmas markets and is recommended as a fabulous destination for winter holidays!

Opening hours:

Monday–Thursday: 11:00 – 21:00,
Friday–Saturday: 10:00 – 22:00,
Sundays: 10:00 – 21:00

Holiday opening hours:

December 24: 10:00–20:00
December 25: 10:00–21:00
December 26: 10:00–22:00
December 31: 10:00–02:00
January 1: 12:00–20:00

Address:

Doma laukums

Christmas market in K.K. fon Stricka villa

On 14th of December here you will find carefully crafted, locally made Latvian gifts, books and other surprises for yourself and your loved ones, along with a warm Christmas atmosphere and delicious mulled wine.

Admission is free — come and enjoy the magic of the season!

Address:

Aristida Briāna iela 9

Baltic Expo Christmas Market

For three festive days, the Baltic Expo Christmas Market will bring together participants from all across the Baltics, creating a joyful and welcoming holiday atmosphere. Children will be able to enjoy plenty of games, fun activities, and free creative workshops in the “Rotaļnīca Quarter”, while the BallisuAtrakcijas.lv inflatable attraction park will offer endless opportunities to jump, play, and laugh. Nearby, in the Baltic Food Zone, visitors can also taste delicious dishes and snacks from local vendors.

Free admission!
This is the largest three-day Christmas fair in the Baltics, taking place at the Riga Christmas Market in Ķīpsala.

Opening hours:

FRIDAY (11.12.2026) - 12:00–20:00
SATURDAY (12.12.2026) - 09:00–20:00
SUNDAY (13.12.2026) - 09:00–19:00

Address:

Ķīpsalas izstāžu halle, Ķīpsalas iela 8

Latvian Pagan Traditions

Latvia's winter celebrations carry traditions that reach back centuries, to a time when the darkest part of the year was marked by rituals connected with nature, light and renewal. These traditions still have a place in contemporary Riga, existing naturally alongside Christmas trees, Advent concerts, festive markets and modern city life.

One of Latvia's oldest year-end rituals remains alive to this day: Bluķa vakars, the tradition of dragging and eventually burning the Yule log. The ritual is associated with leaving behind the troubles of the old year and welcoming a new beginning as light gradually returns after the winter solstice.

Masking traditions are another distinctive part of Latvia's intangible cultural heritage. For generations, the darker half of the year has been the traditional season for masking. At Christmas, groups of masked figures known as budēļi traditionally went from home to home, bringing blessings, encouraging fertility and driving away evil. Their masks symbolise ancestral spirits and benevolent spirits of nature. Even the Latvian word budēlis carries the idea of awakening, stirring and encouraging, reflecting the deeper meaning of the tradition.
Perhaps the best part is that no one needs to feel like an outsider. Mask-making workshops may accompany the celebrations, while games, traditional dances and festivities invite everyone to join in. For a moment, visitors are no longer simply watching a Latvian winter tradition. They become part of it and may even feel a little like locals themselves.

Ice skating, skiing, and swimming in Riga

Invigorating Winter Swimming in Riga

If a winter walk isn't quite enough to get your adrenaline pumping, why not try something a little more adventurous? Even during the Christmas season, Riga offers the chance to join the city's dedicated winter swimmers, affectionately known as "seals", for an unforgettable icy plunge! Taking a dip in freezing water is more than just a test of courage – it's a unique winter ritual that many enthusiasts swear by for its incredible rush of energy and exhilaration. Just remember, winter swimming requires gradual preparation and proper safety precautions.

Cross-Country Skiing in Riga

What could feel more like winter than the crunch of snow beneath your skis and crisp, frosty air brushing against your cheeks? You don't have to venture far from the city to enjoy cross-country skiing. When snow conditions allow, Riga transforms into a winter playground, offering opportunities to explore the snowy surroundings on skis. Whether you're an experienced skier or trying cross-country skiing for the very first time, it's a wonderful way to stay active and embrace the magic of Christmas in Riga. And there's no need to worry if you don't have your own equipment – ski rentals may be available at selected locations.

Ice Skating in Riga

Twinkling Christmas lights, festive music and a pair of ice skates – what more could you need to get into the holiday spirit? During the Christmas season, Riga offers opportunities to enjoy ice skating while soaking up the city's magical winter atmosphere. Whether you're gliding across the ice like a pro or still finding your balance, ice skating is a perfect winter activity to share with family, friends or someone special. And don't worry if you haven't brought your own skates – rental equipment may be available at the city's ice skating rinks.

More information about locations and activities will be announced soon.

Cosy cafes

What could be more comforting than the smell of freshly baked pastries, tempting displays of cakes and a steaming cup of coffee while Riga sparkles with Christmas lights outside? A winter stroll through the city simply wouldn't be complete without a sweet stop or two!

For melt-in-your-mouth treats, head to KŪRE Bakery, indulge your sweet tooth at Sala Café, or pop into Bazaar Beķereja, where the irresistible pastry displays make it almost impossible to walk past. If you're craving speciality coffee paired with something delicious, stop by Rocket Bean Café, or settle in for a leisurely winter afternoon with a slice of cake at the cosy FIKA.

And while you're in Riga, there's one sweet treat you absolutely shouldn't miss – the legendary “Vecrīga” pastry, one of the city's most beloved local delicacies! This traditional Latvian choux pastry, filled with a delicate, creamy cottage cheese filling, is a true Riga classic. Local bakeries offer everything from the original recipe to creative, modern interpretations. Why not turn your Christmas stroll into a little pastry-tasting adventure and discover your favourite version of “Vecrīga”?

For more delicious places to visit and different interpretations of the iconic “Vecrīga” pastry, explore rigabakeries.lv – your guide to Riga's sweetest secret!