03 November 2026

As the days grow shorter and the first winter lights begin to glow, the heart of Riga will once again be filled with the sights, scents and sounds of Christmas. This year, the beloved Riga Christmas Market in Dome Square (Doma laukums) will welcome visitors from 27 November to 3 January, inviting locals and guests from around the world to experience the warmth and magic of the festive season.

A much-anticipated part of Riga’s winter tradition, the Christmas Market transforms the historic Old Town into a welcoming festive gathering place. Surrounded by the architectural beauty of Dome Square, wooden market stalls, twinkling lights and the city’s Christmas tree, visitors can slow down, meet friends and family, discover local crafts and simply enjoy the atmosphere of Christmas in Riga.

 

A CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE FOR EVERYONE

Visitors to the Riga Christmas Market can look forward to a festive selection of experiences, including:

– handcrafted Latvian creations and distinctive Christmas gifts made by more than 80 local artisans;

– festive flavours and aromas, from traditional Christmas treats and hearty seasonal dishes to warming drinks;

– live music and Christmas carols, creating a soundtrack for winter evenings in the Old Town;

– stories, entertainment and dancing, with something to enjoy for both children and adults;

– creative workshops and festive fun for children, offering young visitors the chance to get creative and enjoy special Christmas activities;

– meet Santa Claus in his very own festive house! Last year, visitors from more than 50 countries came to meet Santa Claus at the Riga Christmas Market in Old Town, making it a truly international Christmas experience;

– welcome the New Year in the heart of Old Riga! Continuing a much-loved tradition, the Riga Christmas Market celebrates New Year’s Eve with an energetic and lively atmosphere, as visitors welcome the year ahead to the sounds of DJ music;

– Riga’s Christmas tree and the enchanting festive setting of Dome Square.

More than a place to shop, the Riga Christmas Market is a place to gather. It is where the scent of gingerbread mingles with the crisp winter air, where music fills the square and where a simple walk through the Old Town can become part of the Christmas tradition.

 

VISIT THE RIGA CHRISTMAS MARKET

Dome Square, Old Riga
27 November – 3 January
Open daily
Free admission

Come for the lights, stay for the atmosphere – and discover Christmas in the heart of Riga.

Regular Opening Hours:

  • Monday – Thursday: 11:00 – 21:00
  • Friday: 11:00 – 23:00 (local producers and artisans until 21:00)
  • Saturday: 10:00 – 23:00 (local producers and artisans until 21:00)
  • Sunday: 10:00 – 21:00

Special Holiday Opening Hours:

  • 24 December: 10:00 – 18:00
  • 25 December: 10:00 – 23:00 (local producers and artisans until 21:00)
  • 26 December: 10:00 – 23:00 (local producers and artisans until 21:00)
  • 31 December: 10:00 – 02:00 on 1 January 2027 (local producers and artisans until midnight)
  • 1 January: 12:00 – 23:00 (local producers and artisans until 21:00)
  • 3 January: 10:00 – 18:00

 

ABOUT THE RIGA CHRISTMAS MARKET

The first Christmas Market in the heart of Old Riga was held in 2000 and soon became a beloved festive tradition for both Riga residents and visitors from near and far.

Over the years, the market has grown into a true ambassador of the Christmas spirit, bringing together the enticing aromas of festive treats, the warmth of handcrafted creations and the sparkle of Christmas tree decorations beneath the glow of twinkling lights – filling the heart of Riga with the magic of Christmas.

More news