Riga Christmas Market 2024: What to See, Eat, and Do

Riga’s Old Town is such a cosy little part of the city, and this year it’s really gone all out for the festive season, especially the Old Riga Christmas Market in Dome Square. I’ve never been one to get overly excited when Christmas lights (or seasonal lights as they’re called in Finland—they stay up all winter to combat the darkness and depression) start appearing, but something about Latvia this year has me keeping tabs on when and where the lights are being installed. Am I finally getting too old to be a Grinch?

I certainly didn’t expect to enjoy the Christmas Market in Riga as much as I did either! It’s been open for three days, and I’ve already visited… three times. I’m not surprised it’s been ranked among the Top 5 Christmas Markets in Europe this year by European Best Destinations. It secured 4th place, just after Gdańsk in Poland, Craiova in Romania, and Geneva in Switzerland. Pretty impressive, right?

There’s no snow yet (fingers crossed for some soon), but honestly, the market and the city don’t need it to feel festive. The lights, the music, and the delicious aromas in the air are more than enough to put you in the holiday mood. In fact, if you feel like the Christmas Market might not be enough to convince you to visit, I also listed some other winter Riga activities for you.

What Makes Riga Christmas Market Unique

At first glance, the market seems quite small, tucked away next to Riga Dome Cathedral (Rīgas Doms), but as you wander through, you’ll keep discovering new stalls you hadn’t noticed before.

The market stands in the shadow of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree, but this isn’t the spot where the legend of the first public decorated Christmas tree began. (Although from what I’ve heard, Tallinn likes to dispute this fact!) That honour goes to a location outside the Blackheads House, where guild records claim that members decorated a tree in 1510, danced around it, and then… burned it. There’s even a small statue outside the Blackheads House to commemorate the story.

Meanwhile, at the Christmas Market site, you’ll spot the UNESCO World Heritage Site sign—a reminder of Riga’s rich history and cultural significance, seamlessly blending the past and present.

Shopping at Riga Christmas Market: Latvian Crafts and Unique Gifts

Riga’s Christmas Market offers the usual suspects for holiday gifts, including locally crafted amber jewellery and cosy knitted items—perfect for the winter chill (in case you forgot to bring your own!).

I picked up some wooden ornaments to remind me of my time in Latvia. They’re perfect for travellers dealing with strict cabin baggage weight limits. These and some other crafts also feature traditional Latvian symbols, making them meaningful gifts. Maybe you want to wish someone a long, happy life, or protect them from evil?

Drinks: Warm Up with Local Specialities

This year, the drinks stalls seem to take centre stage, offering an impressive variety of hot beverages. From classic mulled wine (I loved the ones slowly warmed up in the big cauldrons over real fire!) to indulgent Bailey’s coffee, I’m sure there’s something for everyone. 

Since you’re in Riga, you absolutely must try something with Riga Black Balsam, the iconic herbal liqueur. It’s added to hot chocolate, blackcurrant juice, coffee, and more. My tip, if you get to choose, is to opt for the Currant Black Balsam – it’s way better in hot drinks than the original.

For something a little different, my personal favourite was the hot kombucha gin—a creative and warming treat I found near the sheep pen.

Food: Savour Traditional Latvian Flavours

Although there aren’t too many food stalls, the ones you’ll find are a treasure trove of traditional Latvian flavours. 

Update: this was my initial thought, but after visiting Christmas Market in Tallinn, Estonia, I realised that we’re actually spoiled for food in Riga!

Local hearty options like sausages, potatoes and sauerkraut are popular, but if you’re up for trying an authentic Christmas dish, you MUST try grey peas with bacon. I know I was a bit hesitant at first, since it doesn’t sound (or look!) particularly appealing, but it’s surprisingly delicious—and comforting in a hearty winter way. One portion kept me full for the rest of the day (thank you, bacon fat!).

You might wonder if there are vegetarian or vegan options at Riga Christmas Market? Unfortunately, if you’re vegetarian, your options are quite limited. As a cold, wintery country, much of Latvia’s traditional food revolves around meat in one form or another—or three.

That said, there are still a few choices, like pelmeni (dumplings) with cheese or cheesy khachapuri. I only spotted one stall with vegan options (to eat at the market or take home with you), so it’s not all sausages and pork, but vegetarians and vegans may need to lower their expectations a bit.

There are also plenty of sweet options to enjoy, like gingerbread (if you’re not too soft-hearted to eat the pretty decorations), pancakes, waffles, and even churros! You’ll also find a selection of baked goods and bubble waffles for a sweet, Instagram-worthy treat.

What to Expect at the Riga Christmas Market

The market runs from November 29 until January 2nd and features a variety of activities, especially on weekends. Here’s a glimpse of what you can enjoy:

• For Adults:
  • Live entertainment including choir performances and concerts.
  • DJ sets on Friday and Saturday evenings. The music was blasting away on my second visit on the first Friday the market was running and while I hoped for more Christmas songs, the playlists leaned towards disco and pop—fun, but not quite festive.
• For Kids:
  • Pony rides during weekends and holidays (weather permitting).
  • Santa Claus House, open Thursday to Sunday, as well as around Christmas.
  • Weekend activities like gingerbread coloring and games with elves.
• For Everyone:
  • A sheep pen, which was empty during my visit on the first weekend—but maybe there’ll be some residents soon!
  • Update: They have arrived!

For full program details and updates, visit the official website or their Instagram page.

When’s the Best Time to Visit?

If you want to soak up the festive atmosphere without the crowds, I’d recommend visiting during the week. There’s still music and a lively vibe, but it’s quieter and more relaxed.

Most of the programs happen during the weekend, so if you’re wanting to visit the market with kids, Friday through to Sunday is the time to go. I would personally avoid Friday and Saturday evenings, though, but that’s because I’m easily overstimulated by loud music and big crowds.

Helpful Tips for Visitors

• Bring cash: While many food and drink stalls accept cards, some artisans and smaller businesses only take cash.
• Bundle Up for the Weather: Even if there’s no snow, Riga’s winters can be damp and chilly. Make sure to dress warmly, with good shoes for walking on cobblestones (can’t escape these anywhere in the Old Town!), gloves, and a scarf to keep you cosy while exploring the market. The temperature plummets after the sun goes down, but that’s when the Christmas lights are the nicest.
• Address: Cathedral Square (Doma laukums), Riga, Latvia.
• How to get there: If you’re staying outside Old Riga’s centre, the easiest way to reach the market is by taking public transport to the eastern edge of the Old Town. Keep in mind that there’s no public transport inside the Old Town itself, so you’ll need to walk a bit to reach the market.

The streets of Old Town are winding and can feel a bit like a maze, but don’t worry—just look for one of the tall brown towers of Riga Cathedral (and not St. Peter’s Church, which is a different, tall brown landmark).

If I’ve convinced you to come see the Riga Christmas Market, but don’t have anywhere to stay yet, you can check out my top 3 favourite hostels for adults!

Ready to experience the magic? Add the Riga Christmas Market to your winter travel plans!