Experience the captivating magic of Riga in December, when Latvia’s capital transforms into a storybook setting filled with glimmering lights, cozy cafés, and the scent of mulled wine wafting through cobblestone streets. Visiting at this time of year means discovering the city at its most atmospheric — a blend of history, culture, and celebration. Whether you’re here for the Riga Christmas Market, festive concerts, or simply the feeling of a winter escape, December in Riga offers countless ways to fall in love with the city.
If you’re planning your winter getaway and wondering about the best things to do in Riga, this detailed guide and event calendar will help you experience the magic like a local — from holiday fairs and concerts to cozy nights in your MIRO Rooms apartment.
🎄 Full Calendar of Events in Riga — December 2025
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Date / Period |
Event |
Description |
|---|---|---|
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Nov 29 – Jan 2 |
Riga Christmas Market (Doma Square & Līvu Square) |
Riga’s most iconic Christmas market fills the Old Town with light and laughter. Browse local crafts, ornaments, wool scarves, and artisan candles, then warm up with a cup of spicy glogg or roasted almonds. Carol singers and street performers keep spirits bright well into the evening. |
|
Dec 6 – 7 |
St. Lucia Day Celebrations |
The Scandinavian tradition comes to Riga! Expect candlelight processions, Swedish choir performances, and a special winter fair celebrating the cultural ties of the Baltic region. |
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Dec 13 – 15 |
Baltic Expo Christmas Fair (Ķīpsala Exhibition Hall) |
The largest indoor holiday fair in the Baltics, featuring over 400 vendors from Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia. Find handmade jewelry, ceramics, gourmet chocolates, and holiday décor — all under one festive roof. |
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Throughout December |
The Nutcracker & Winter Ballets – Latvian National Opera |
Tchaikovsky’s timeless The Nutcracker remains the highlight of Riga’s winter season. The Opera also hosts performances of Swan Lake, La Traviata, and festive symphony concerts. Book early — seats sell fast! |
|
Dec 18 – 24 |
Winter Light Festival – Vērmanes Garden |
Thousands of glowing lanterns and art installations transform Riga’s central park into a dreamlike light walk. Families and photographers love this event for its magical atmosphere and nightly music shows. |
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Dec 24 – 26 |
Festive Concert Series & Christmas Masses |
From the “Christmas Feeling” concert at the Great Guild (25 Dec) to “Jubilate, Stars!” (26 Dec), enjoy live classical and gospel performances in Riga’s most historic churches and concert halls. |
|
Dec 28 – 31 |
Riga New Year Countdown Week |
Open-air concerts, DJs, street food, and fireworks rehearsals lead up to New Year’s Eve. Join locals and travelers gathering at 11. Novembra krastmala for the city’s biggest celebration. |
|
Dec 31 – Jan 1 |
New Year’s Eve Fireworks & River Celebration |
Say farewell to the year with dazzling fireworks over the Daugava River, live bands, food trucks, and a truly international crowd. Perfect finale to your Riga adventure. |
✨ Why Riga in December Is So Special
Riga isn’t just another European city in winter — it’s a destination that glows with authenticity and warmth. The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is especially breathtaking in December: its medieval architecture wrapped in snow, café windows fogged with warmth, and every corner sparkling with festive décor.
Walk through the Art Nouveau district, one of Europe’s finest collections of early 20th-century architecture, or take a romantic stroll along the Daugava River as the city lights reflect on the icy water. Enjoy a steaming bowl of grey peas with bacon — a traditional Latvian Christmas dish — or try a slice of gingerbread fresh from the market.
Beyond the sights, it’s the spirit that makes Riga unique. Locals truly embrace the season: cheerful, relaxed, and welcoming. From spontaneous choir performances in cathedral squares to street musicians playing carols, Riga in December feels like a real-life holiday movie. For travelers, it’s a chance to combine Riga sightseeing with genuine festive warmth.
🏡 Stay Close to the Magic — MIRO Rooms
After a full day exploring markets, concerts, and light shows, there’s nothing better than returning to comfort. MIRO Rooms Rentals offers three premium locations across central Riga — each thoughtfully designed for travelers who value style, peace, and convenience.
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MIRO Rooms Center — perfectly situated in the vibrant heart of Riga. Step outside and find cafés, galleries, and boutiques at your doorstep. Inside, enjoy designer interiors, air-conditioning, soundproof rooms, and a modern kitchen that lets you prepare a cozy evening meal.
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MIRO Rooms Skolas — at 14 Skolas iela, a quick 12-minute stroll from the main Christmas Market. This location offers free private parking — ideal for guests arriving by car — as well as ultra-fast Wi-Fi, refined décor, and a peaceful courtyard setting.
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MIRO Rooms French — a sophisticated 46 m² apartment with open-space living, premium materials, and a welcoming atmosphere. Perfect for couples or families seeking elegance near the city center.
Every MIRO Rooms property offers high-quality furnishings, natural stone finishes, and a sense of home — whether you’re visiting for a few nights or a full winter stay. You’ll be minutes away from the top Riga tourist attractions, restaurants, and festive hotspots.
➡ Book your stay now: https://miro-rooms.com/book-your-apartment-now/
💡 Travel Tips for December in Riga
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Pack wisely: Temperatures often hover between –5 °C and +2 °C, so bring warm layers, a hat, and waterproof boots. The cobblestones can be slippery when icy.
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Catch the lights: Visit the Christmas Market or the Light Festival right after sunset for the most magical atmosphere and fewer crowds.
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Book cultural tickets early: December performances at the Opera and Great Guild are often sold out weeks in advance.
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Enjoy local food: Try traditional dishes like smoked fish, sauerkraut soup, or hot black balsam — Riga’s signature herbal liqueur.
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Use free parking wisely: MIRO Rooms Skolas offers complimentary parking — a rare and valuable perk in central Riga.
🌟 Final Thought
Make this December one you’ll never forget. Between the joyful Riga Christmas Market, enchanting performances of The Nutcracker, shimmering Winter Light Festival, and the electrifying New Year’s Eve fireworks, there’s no shortage of things to do in Riga this winter.
By staying at MIRO Rooms, you’ll enjoy a stylish base close to everything — culture, food, and celebration. Warm, quiet, and beautifully designed, it’s more than accommodation; it’s part of the experience. Discover why travelers from all over Europe are choosing Riga as their favorite December destination — and why MIRO Rooms is the perfect place to make your winter holiday feel like home.