Event Details
Welcome to Riga Christmas Market 2026
From 27 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, Dome Square (Doma laukums) in the heart of Riga's Old Town becomes one of the most enchanting Christmas markets in northern Europe. Traditional wooden stalls line the cobblestones beneath the Riga Cathedral, mulled wine aromas drift through the winter air, and Latvian artisans display their handcrafted wares. Admission is free at all locations.
Riga holds a unique place in Christmas history: the first recorded public decorated Christmas tree was set up here in 1510, when the Brotherhood of the Blackheads decorated a tree with roses in the marketplace. A commemorative plaque in the cobblestones of Dome Square marks this historic spot to this day.
Market Locations
The Riga Christmas Market spans three locations across the Old Town:
- Doma laukums (Dome Square): The main market with over 80 stalls from Latvian producers and craftspeople. Open Monday to Thursday 11:00–21:00; Friday and Saturday 10:00–22:00; Sunday 10:00–21:00.
- Livu laukums (Livu Square): A smaller, cosy market a short walk from Dome Square with a charming festive atmosphere.
- Esplanade Park: A family-friendly market in front of the Orthodox Cathedral featuring a small petting zoo.
Highlights
- Free admission at all market locations
- Over 80 stalls from Latvian producers and artisans at Dome Square
- Historic setting directly beside Riga Cathedral in the UNESCO Old Town
- Santa's house where children can send letters to Lapland
- DJ evenings every Friday; choirs and music ensembles on Saturdays; folk music on Sundays
- Carousel and animal petting area for families
- Traditional Latvian crafts and authentic Baltic Christmas atmosphere
- Christmas tree illuminated on Dome Square from opening day
Program
The entertainment program follows a weekly structure: DJs perform on Friday evenings, choirs and ensembles take the stage on Saturdays, and traditional Latvian folk music fills the market on Sundays. Over the Christmas holidays and New Year period, an extended cultural program features local performers and artists.
Special opening hours on public holidays:
- 24 December: 10:00–20:00
- 25 December: 10:00–21:00
- 26 December: 10:00–22:00
- 31 December: 10:00–02:00
- 1 January: 12:00–20:00
Food & Crafts
The market offers an authentic selection of Latvian specialities: warming mulled wine, Piparkūkas (traditional Latvian gingerbread), roasted almonds, Black Balsam (Latvia's iconic herbal liqueur, served warm with blackcurrant juice), smoked meats, honey, jams, and hearty street food. Artisans offer beeswax candles, hand-knitted wool socks and mittens, amber and silver jewellery, traditional wooden toys, wickerwork, leather goods, and DIY craft kits.
Visitor Tips
- The market is free to enter; most stalls accept both cash and card.
- Weekdays are significantly quieter than weekends; ideal for a relaxed visit.
- Pack warm, waterproof clothing: Riga winters are cold and often damp.
- The Old Town is compact and walkable; all three market locations are within a few minutes on foot.
- Riga Airport (RIX) has direct connections from several European cities.
- Book accommodation early as demand is high throughout the Advent season.
- English is widely spoken at the markets and across the city centre.
