Riga Christmas Market Walkthrough

Each winter, Dome Square in Riga’s Old Town transforms into a snug, glowing village of market chalets, open fires, music, and the scent of Latvian food. Now in its 25th season, the Riga Christmas Market brings together more than 80 Latvian artisans and home producers offering locally made crafts, food, and drinks.

Typically open from late November until early January, the Riga Christmas Market 2025 opened on November 28 and welcomes visitors until January 4. Its authentic charm and festive atmosphere have earned it a spot among Europe’s favourites, ranking 3rd among the European Best Christmas Markets. Let’s step into this wonderland together! 

1. Arrive in the glow of Dome Square

So, you’ve wandered through Old Town’s cobbled streets and reached Dome Square. Notice a storybook arch of evergreens, laced with lights and crowned with a scarlet bow – that’s how you know you’ve arrived at the Riga Christmas Market. The square opens up in a warm glow: wooden stalls, cheerful Christmas music in the air, and Riga Cathedral rising behind it, its golden rooster glinting atop the spire through the winter mist. Pause for a moment. Take it in. This is where the fairy tale begins.

2. Follow Your Nose to the Food Stalls

As you take your first stroll through the market, a gentle calm settles over you. Then, what’s that? The mouth-watering scent of Latvian food sizzling in open-air kitchens makes even a full stomach rumble. Follow your nose to traditional dishes: grey peas with bacon (pelēkie zirņi), stewed cabbage, rich pork roasts, or maybe just a bite of exquisite Latvian gingerbread. There’s something for everyone here – from hearty soups to vegan hotdogs, or indulgent dirty fries.

3. Warm Up With Something to Drink

Of course, you’ll want a warming drink with that. Perhaps mulled wine or punch, a mulled beer cocktail, Irish coffee, or a creamy cocktail topped with whipped cream! There’s so much on offer, and you can enjoy it guilt-free in a reusable deposit cup that can be returned later.

4. Find Lovingly Crafted Christmas Presents

When you’ve warmed up with food and drink, why not browse for Christmas presents, useful souvenirs, or simply treat yourself to hand-crafted artisan goods?

As Riga Christmas Market Manager Anna Blaua invites: “You can find woven items, wooden toys and decorations, knitted goods, amber and silver jewelry, games, ornaments, leather products, candles, and sheepskin items. There’s also a tempting array of edible gifts – local honey, gingerbread, hemp treats, cured meats, preserves, sauces, syrups, and drinks.”

Whether you choose vibrant Latvian mittens with traditional patterns, an intricate clay pot, or a hand-carved wooden butter knife that melts into your hand, the care, creativity, and quality of each piece is unmistakable. See the full list of vendors on the Riga Christmas Market map.

5. Soak Up the Magic

Riga Christmas Market offers many more activities to enjoy the wonder of the season. The youngest visitors can ride the Christmas carousel and, on weekends, meet Santa Claus and his elves. There’s also a shed of utterly unbothered sheep and gentle pony rides on offer for those who like a slower pace.

Anna Blaua highlights the special events program too: “You can start your weekend by dancing to the DJ on Friday nights. On Saturdays and Sundays, folklore groups, choirs, children’s vocal ensembles, singers, and bands take the stage. You can even join the Riga Dance Club for a traditional dance or two on the weekends.”

For those who prefer to stay indoors, the snugly named Snug bar and the tucked-away Kafe Elizabete offer peak level coziness. And, of course, a magnificent Christmas tree in the middle of it all, smiling people, and the perfect backdrop (including a special photo corner) for festive pictures.

If you ask us, the Riga Christmas Market alone is reason enough to visit Latvia. Unlike markets in larger capitals, it remains uncrowded and peaceful, yet offers all the warmth and indulgence of the season. See you there!