Event Details
Welcome to New Year's Eve 2026/2027 in Riga
On December 31st, Riga's Old Town (Vecrīga) traditionally turns into a large open air stage, with several squares around Rātslaukums (Town Hall Square) and the Daugava riverside promenade coming together to welcome 2027. The official 2026/2027 programme from the city of Riga has not yet been published; last year's celebration ran from 9 pm to 2 am across six squares in the Old Town.
Highlights & Attractions at New Year's Eve in Riga
- Free DJ sets and audiovisual shows across several Old Town squares, last year including Town Hall Square, Līvu Square and Pils Square
- Video projections on historic façades, synchronised with live music
- A shared midnight countdown with hosts guiding the crowd at each venue
- The historic backdrop of Riga's Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- The Christmas Market at Dome Square, which based on previous announcements stays open through the turn of the year
- Hot drinks and snacks available at the event venues
- Private fireworks set off by residents across the city and along the Daugava, a widespread Baltic New Year tradition
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Program & Schedule: What to Expect on New Year's Eve in Riga
The exact 2026/2027 schedule, including times and the DJ lineup, has not been officially confirmed by the city of Riga yet; check the city's website or kultura.riga.lv closer to the date. Last year's celebration ran from 9 pm to 2 am, spread across six Old Town squares, with DJ sets and matching video projections at each location. Worth noting: according to available sources, the official municipal celebration on the Old Town squares does not include an organised fireworks show and in some years has explicitly prohibited fireworks there; instead, many residents traditionally set off private fireworks across the city, including along the Daugava, though sources on this point are not fully consistent.
Tickets & Admission for New Year's Eve in Riga
The celebration on the Old Town squares is a free public event and no ticket is required. For a private gala or a festive dinner overlooking the Old Town, these must be booked directly with the relevant restaurants or event organisers; prices for such options sit outside the official municipal programme.
Visitor Tips: Travel & Accommodation in Riga
- Book accommodation directly in the Old Town to walk easily between the different squares
- Check the official programme on the city of Riga's website or kultura.riga.lv closer to the date, as times and line ups may still change
- Pack warm, layered clothing and sturdy shoes, since the Old Town squares and riverside promenade can be very cold and icy in winter
- Reserve restaurants and tables well in advance, as the Old Town is fully booked on New Year's Eve
- Keep a safe distance from private fireworks set off around the city
