Best Places to Celebrate Christmas and New Year in Riga

Riga, the capital of Latvia, is a wonderful destination to experience the magic of Christmas and New Year’s celebrations. Known for its enchanting Old Town, historic charm, and vibrant holiday markets, Riga offers an inviting atmosphere that is perfect for a winter getaway. Here’s a guide to the best places to visit, dine, and explore during the holiday season in Riga.

Top Christmas Markets to Visit in Riga

Riga’s Christmas markets are known for their cozy ambiance, traditional crafts, and festive foods. Here are some of the best markets to explore during the holiday season.

• Dome Square Christmas Market
  The largest Christmas market in Riga, located in the heart of the Old Town at Dome Square, is filled with wooden stalls selling traditional Latvian crafts, handmade gifts, and local delicacies like gingerbread, mulled wine, and smoked sausages. Live music, horse-drawn carriage rides, and a beautifully decorated Christmas tree add to the holiday spirit.

• Livu Square Christmas Market
  This smaller market offers a more intimate holiday experience with charming stalls selling ornaments, wool clothing, and Christmas snacks. A perfect place for families, Livu Square has an ice skating rink and seasonal decorations that bring extra joy to the holiday season.

• Esplanade Park Christmas Market
  Esplanade Park hosts a cozy Christmas market surrounded by beautiful park scenery. Here, you’ll find unique Latvian handicrafts, wool products, and delicious hot drinks. The market also includes a small petting zoo and a lovely nativity scene, adding to the festive feel.

• Kalnciema Quarter Market
  For a local experience, visit the Kalnciema Quarter Market, where traditional crafts, local foods, and artisanal products are sold in a quaint neighborhood setting. The market often hosts events such as live performances and workshops, perfect for those who enjoy creative activities.

Best Restaurants for a Festive Meal

Riga’s dining scene is known for its unique blend of traditional Latvian flavors and modern culinary twists. Here are some of the best restaurants to enjoy a festive holiday meal.

• 3 Pavāru Restorāns (3 Chefs Restaurant)
  Located in the heart of Riga’s Old Town, 3 Pavāru Restorāns offers a creative twist on traditional Latvian dishes. Their holiday menu often includes seasonal ingredients like game meats, mushrooms, and berries, served in an elegant yet cozy atmosphere.

• Bibliotēka No1 Restorāns
  Known for its upscale ambiance and innovative approach to Latvian cuisine, Bibliotēka No1 Restorāns is a great choice for a special Christmas or New Year’s dinner. The restaurant uses locally sourced ingredients to create festive dishes, including seafood and traditional Latvian stews.

• Rozengrāls
  For a unique medieval dining experience, Rozengrāls offers a historical setting with stone walls and candle-lit tables. The menu features hearty medieval-inspired dishes, making it a memorable place to enjoy the holiday season.

• Restaurant 36. Line
  Located by the seaside in Jūrmala, just a short drive from Riga, Restaurant 36. Line serves fresh, seasonal dishes with a holiday twist. The restaurant’s cozy interior and scenic views make it ideal for a winter meal.

• Entresol
  A fine dining option with a focus on Latvian ingredients, Entresol offers a cozy, stylish atmosphere. The holiday menu typically includes a mix of traditional and modern dishes, paired with fine wines, creating a warm and festive dining experience.

Picturesque Places to Visit During Christmas Time

Riga’s historic architecture, cobbled streets, and winter landscapes create a magical holiday setting. Here are a few scenic spots to explore:

• Old Town Riga
  Riga’s Old Town is transformed into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with lights, decorations, and festive markets. Stroll through the narrow streets, visit the Christmas tree in Dome Square, and enjoy the holiday ambiance along the way.

• Riga Cathedral and Dome Square
  The iconic Riga Cathedral is beautifully decorated during the holidays, with a grand Christmas tree and festive lights surrounding Dome Square. This area is ideal for evening strolls and holiday photos.

• Riga Central Market
  For a taste of local life, visit the Riga Central Market, one of Europe’s largest markets, where you can shop for holiday ingredients, regional foods, and handmade crafts. The market is located inside former Zeppelin hangars, giving it a unique architectural charm.

• Bastejkalna Park
  Bastejkalna Park offers a peaceful winter setting, with frozen canals, snow-covered trees, and romantic bridges. It’s a great spot for a winter walk or ice skating.

• Jūrmala
  For a peaceful day trip, head to Jūrmala, a seaside town just 25 minutes from Riga. The town’s winter beaches and quiet atmosphere make it a beautiful escape from the city, and many resorts offer holiday packages.

Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Riga

New Year’s Eve in Riga is a vibrant celebration with events, fireworks, and traditional customs. Here are some of the best places to ring in the New Year:

• Dome Square
  Dome Square hosts Riga’s main New Year’s Eve festivities, including live music, performances, and a midnight fireworks display. The historic surroundings and festive decorations make it a lively spot to celebrate.

• The Freedom Monument
  Many locals gather near the Freedom Monument to enjoy the New Year’s Eve fireworks. This iconic location provides a great view of the city’s lights and is a popular gathering spot for the countdown.

• Skyline Bar (Radisson Blu)
  For a more upscale celebration, head to the Skyline Bar on the 26th floor of the Radisson Blu Hotel. With panoramic views of Riga’s skyline, this bar is perfect for watching the fireworks while enjoying cocktails and a festive atmosphere.

• Andrejosta Riverside District
  Andrejosta, located by the Daugava River, is another popular spot to view fireworks over the water. The area features several bars and restaurants, making it ideal for a fun night out.

• Vermanes Garden
  For a quieter celebration, Vermanes Garden offers a peaceful setting with festive lights and a gentle winter ambiance. It’s a great place for a New Year’s stroll or gathering with friends and family.

Your Riga Holiday Adventure in Christmas, New Year

• Dress Warmly for Winter
  Winters in Riga can be quite cold, so dress in layers and bring a good winter coat, gloves, and a hat to stay comfortable while exploring outdoor markets and events.

• Try Latvian Holiday Foods
  Don’t miss traditional holiday foods like piparkūkas (gingerbread), šprotes (smoked sprats), and pelēkie zirņi ar speķi (gray peas with bacon) for a true taste of Latvia.

• Make Reservations for New Year’s Events
  Riga’s New Year’s events, particularly popular bars and restaurants, can book up quickly. Reserve your spot in advance to ensure a memorable celebration.

Riga’s holiday season is full of charm, warmth, and tradition. From the festive markets in the Old Town to cozy restaurants and beautiful winter landscapes, Riga provides a magical Christmas and New Year’s experience that will leave lasting memories.