Riga in winter

Christmas markets

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,
Sunday: 10:00 - 20:00

Holiday opening hours:

December 24-26 10:00 - 20:00
December 31 10:00 - 02:00
January 1 12:00 - 20:00

Āgenskalns Market Christmas Market

Looking for that magical Christmas spirit in Riga or a cozy place for winter dates in the city? Head to the most vibrant meeting spot in Pārdaugava — Āgenskalns Market! Every Saturday and Sunday from 29 November to 29 December, between 10:00 and 18:00, the market transforms into a festive Riga Christmas Market, filled with surprises, seasonal flavours, and heartwarming finds.

In the pavilion’s ground-floor pop-up stands, the outdoor Greenhouse, and the market courtyard, vendors from all across Latvia will offer original gift ideas, hot festive drinks, gingerbread dough, fragrant Christmas trees, beautiful Advent wreaths, and everything else that brings joy and inspiration during the holiday season. Outside, you’ll also find the winter edition of the Krāminieks flea market, perfect for discovering unique vintage treasures — from nut-cookie baking molds to charming tableware and unexpected gift gems.

Kalnciema Quarter Christmas Market

The Kalnciema Quarter Christmas Market has become a beloved winter postcard of Riga. Join the festive atmosphere every Saturday from 29 November to 27 December, and also on the special market day — Sunday, 21 December!

Don’t miss the Contemporary Ceramics Pop-Up Market in the gallery from 6 December to 3 January, featuring around 20 talented ceramic artists from across Latvia.

Here you can find unique gifts from local artisans and designers, wood-fired bread, traditional Alsunga sklandrauši, and other Latvian farm specialties — from hemp chocolate to pinecone syrup and viburnum juice. You can choose your perfect Christmas tree and enjoy a steaming cup of mulled wine. In the cozy 19th-century wooden-house café, warm up with mulled wine prepared from Marche-region Italian wines and enjoy long, relaxed conversations.

This year, alongside the market, visitors can enjoy a festive cultural programme with concerts on the outdoor stage, elves, family-friendly surprises, and creative workshops for children.

Riga Design Market

Find meaningful and high-quality Christmas gifts in Riga at the Riga Design Market on 6–7 December! More than 100 of the best Baltic designers will offer fashion, interior items, and children’s products for every taste.

Many items will be one-of-a-kind, available in a single copy — the perfect opportunity to meet artists who usually work exclusively from their own studios.

Visitors can also enjoy aromatic coffee and warm pastries — a great way to spend time in a creative and cozy indoor setting.

The market will be open 6–7 December, from 11:00 to 17:00.
Admission is free. The event is pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your dog!

Address:
Riga Circus, Merķeļa Street 4

DISCOVER MORE CHRISTMAS MARKETS IN RIGA HERE

New Year's Celebrations in Riga

A crazy party in a Riga bar, a gala dinner in an elegant restaurant, an unforgettable tango on the floor of the venue hall or a family celebration under the starry sky in the Riga city centre - the opportunities to properly say goodbye to 2024 and welcome the New 2025 in Riga this season will be impressive and suitable for every taste! 

There will be celebrations in Old Riga, masquerade balls and events with a dress code in venues, cosy gatherings in hotels and hotel restaurants as well as crazy parties in Riga's bars! More info HERE

Christmas lights and decorations in Riga

When Advent arrives in Riga, the city transforms into a shimmering winter fairy tale. From historic boulevards to peaceful neighborhood streets, Christmas lights appear everywhere, brightening dark winter evenings and filling the city with a warm holiday spirit.

This year, the facade of Riga Cathedral (Doma baznīca) will shine especially bright with festive illumination. With the first Advent candle, the city’s main Christmas trees in Riga Old Town - at Rātslaukums (Town Hall Square) and Doma Square - will also be lit, turning both squares into the most magical holiday gathering places.

As the Christmas season unfolds, more decorated trees will appear throughout the city - each with its own character and design, creating the feeling that Riga is wrapped in a glowing forest of festive trees.

This year, Riga introduces several new light installations to delight both locals and visitors:

- “Riga Light Trees” on Kaļķu Street in Old Town - a special illuminated pathway leading you through the festive charm of Riga’s historic center.

- “Christmas Light Trees” in Bastejkalns and near the Opera House, along the City Canal - a peaceful winter walk where reflections of the city meet playful, shimmering lights.

During the Christmas season, Riga becomes a city of light and wonder - a place where winter strolls, the aroma of mulled wine, and sparkling installations blend into one unforgettable holiday story.

Active leisure

Refreshing dip

Embracing the exhilarating trend of the season, winter swimming in Riga energizes with the thrill of icy waters. Despite the initial shock, enthusiasts swear by its refreshing effects on both body and mind. The icy plunge is said to awaken the senses, boost circulation, and strengthen resilience. With more people taking the plunge, the tradition gathers a community of adventurous spirits seeking the ultimate winter thrill. As the icy waters embrace them, a sense of euphoria sets in, reinforcing the belief that this chilly ritual holds the key to a revitalized spirit and an unwavering zest for life.

Go swimming to: Vecāķi, Vakarbuļļi, “Lucavsalas līcis”, Ķīpsala un Bābelītis

Cross-Country Skiing

Although Latvia is mostly flat, during the winter months, the landscape is often covered with a significant layer of snow, making it perfect for cross-country skiing. Riga is ready to see you show off your winter sports skills! Don’t worry about gear – every trail offers equipment rentals. More info coming soon

Ice Skating in the City

In Esplanade Park, next to the Jānis Rainis Monument and surrounding the rose garden, a winter ice skating rink in Riga will be open, inviting both adults and children to test their skating skills or simply enjoy the magical winter atmosphere in the very heart of the city. If you bring your own skates, you can go on the ice free of charge. If not, on-site skate and equipment rental is available, ensuring no one leaves without enjoying a glide on the ice.

The rink will operate depending on weather conditions. More detailed information will follow soon.

Scavenger hunt games

Embrace the winter wonderland of Riga with a thrilling scavenger hunt by Roadgames. Explore hidden treasures in the historical heart of the city, and uncover the charm of remote districts such as Sarkandaugava, Bolderāja, Mangaļsala, and Āgenskalns. Sharpen your tactical and topographical skills as you solve mysteries, and capture the most picturesque moments for your Instagram feed. Gather a friend and embark on an exciting journey through Riga's wintry landscapes, where every twist and turn promises an adventure to remember.

Discover the Best Restaurants in Riga This Winter

It’s no secret that love goes through the stomach — and this winter, Riga is the perfect place to fall in love with food all over again. From refined fine dining experiences to cozy bistro vibes, the city’s culinary scene offers endless ways to warm up and indulge. Traditional Latvian dishes, classic European cuisine, and global flavors come together to make every meal a reason to celebrate the season.

Riga’s restaurant scene has never been more exciting. Visit Māsa, featured in the Michelin Guide for its contemporary take on seasonal local flavors, or The Catch, where elegant Japanese cuisine meets a distinctive Riga character. Don’t miss SMOR bistro, recognized with a Bib Gourmand for its outstanding balance of quality and value.

If you’re looking for new taste adventures, try Tails — a stylish and modern restaurant known for its creative cocktails and refined flavors. Enjoy Lowine, a natural wine bar with an inventive seasonal menu, or B7, where a relaxed atmosphere meets carefully sourced local ingredients.

These are just a few of the best restaurants in Riga to enjoy winter flavors and festive moods. Explore more Michelin Guide recommendations and other exciting dining spots in our Eat & Drink section.

Cosy cafes

On a chilly winter day, there's nothing quite as delightful as sinking your teeth into a freshly baked, warm bun, a delectable cake that practically melts in your mouth, or savouring a steaming cup of tea. Take a well-deserved break and get cosy at one of Riga's charming cafes. You'll discover delightful pastries and other culinary gems at Mulberry Cafe. If you're exploring Old Riga, don't miss out on the scrumptious delights at the Cruffins patisserie, which has quickly become a local favourite. For a hidden gem in the old town, look no further than Parunāsim. Kafe'teeka! Craving both classic and unique flavours? Kūkotava is a go-to spot for the locals. And when it comes to sweets, Riga residents rave about the heavenly almond croissants at Mīkla Bakery.

Pampering spa treatments

During the dark, cold months of the year, self-care is doubly important. Warm up your body for the remaining winter months in one of Riga SPA centres. Relaxing rest will be provided by "Wellton SPA Riverside" spa, exclusive treatments can be enjoyed at "Hedonic SPA", as well as "Taka SPA", "Kempinski Spa" and "ESPA Riga".

Culture events

Riga's winter event lineup will be truly impressive, offering something for everyone! Music enthusiasts can look forward to an array of delightful holiday concerts, while art lovers will be treated to a diverse selection of exhibitions throughout the city. Even the opera and ballet scenes stay vibrant, adding a touch of warmth and grandeur to the holiday season. For more details on Riga's cultural happenings, be sure to explore our Events section.