From concerts, fun activities, walks and delicious events to unforgettable festivals! This summer, Riga offers a wide list of indoor activities, as well as plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Here, read and find out how to fully enjoy the steamy days and nights of this summer in Riga!
Positivus festival 2024
Positivus is one of the biggest and most anticipated festivals that offers its visitors an unforgettable experience. With a wide range of recognizable and world-renowned performers, countless entertainment options, and a lively atmosphere, the Positivus festival in Lucavsala is an event not to be missed this summer on July 19 and 20. Positivus visitors will be surprised this year by energetic Jason Derulo, popular rapper Offset, Nothing But Thieves, Nemzzz, and many others!
TET Rally Latvia - WRC 2024
The year 2024 will mark a new chapter in the history of Latvian motorsport, as from July 18th to 21st, the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) stage will be held in Latvia for the first time. The long-awaited arrival of the WRC in Latvia is scheduled for mid-summer—a rally festival that will span an unprecedented four days and cover a particularly wide area of Latvia, from Riga to Liepāja! On July 18th, the rally's opening ceremony will take place in the capital city, along with the super-special speed race at the Biķernieki race track, to which every big and small motorsport enthusiast is invited to enjoy!
Riga's Birthday celebration
This year, as always, Riga's Birthday celebrations are back! Join everybody on August 17 in Old Riga, 11. novembra krastmala and at Uzvaras Park for a day filled with events, shows, concerts, and attractions.
The celebration at 11. novembra krastmala promises concerts, dances, workshops, and surprises throughout the day. The highlight will be a mesmerizing laser performance over the Daugava River.
In Old Riga, you can enjoy performances by street musicians, savor Latvian culinary heritage at Rātslaukums, and indulge in delicious food and drinks at Riga's birthday restaurant in Doma Square. Don't miss the Light Garden in Uzvaras Park, created by the French artists' association "Cie Carabosse,'' featuring live fire installations and elements of street theater, music, and improvisation.
Unwind by the water
Rent a kayak or SUP board from Rīgas Laivas, experience your first trip with a jetboard on the Daugava River, and see Riga from a different perspective—glide through the winding canals and watch the sunset in the middle of the expansive Daugava. If you prefer a more relaxed activity, take advantage of the opportunities offered by river cruises or Riga by Canal and enjoy a boat ride along the Riga canal or watch the sunset on the Daugava. But if you want to cool off after the summer heat, head to one of Riga's well-maintained beaches and go for a swim!
More info about activities near water you can read here!
Discover Riga's nightlife!
Riga is ready for its vibrant summer nightlife. If you're looking to immerse yourself in the city's lively atmosphere during the warm season, you'll find plenty of options to choose from. Whether you prefer cozy bars, energetic nightclubs, or unique event spaces, Riga has it all. From the charming Old Town to the trendy neighborhoods, there's something to suit every taste. Embrace the summer vibes as you indulge in refreshing drinks, engage in lively conversations, groove to live music and DJ sets, all while soaking up the enchanting ambiance that only a summer night can offer. Different suggestions what to do and where to go when the sun sets you will find HERE!
Taste the summer goodies
When you visit one of Riga's favorite market squares, you know you will enjoy fresh berries, vegetables, greens, and hearty conversations there. An authentic experience awaits you at the Central Market Night Market, which operates from 17:00. There, farmers offer the best and tastiest produce to buyers on summer evenings. During the day, right here in the Central Market, you can not only savor the fresh and delicious aromas but also delight your eyes with colorful summer goodies.
Heading towards Pārdaugava, you must visit the picturesque Āgenskalns Market, which has become a favorite meeting and shopping place for both local residents and tourists. Here you can buy not only fresh products but also enjoy a delicious meal or taste refreshing cocktails on the second floor of the market, as well as experience the events held frequently during summertime!
On Saturdays, you can go to the Kalnciema Quarter Market, where visitors will be delighted with a rich selection for their palate, hobbies, and home. Here you will find a diverse range of artworks created by craftsmen, homemakers, caterers, and other masters.
Every Wednesday from 16:00 to 20:00, it is worth visiting Vidzeme Market's Night Market, which opened recently, but has already become quite popular and appreciated. In Vidzemes market, it is possible to buy seasonal vegetables, fruits and berries, various meat, fish and dairy products, beekeeping products and other farm goods and creations from local farmers and home producers.
Picnic in the park
Having a picnic together and getting away from home is a great way to enjoy a day outdoors. Whether you want to spend the day in sunny Lucavsala or seek refuge from the heat in the shady parks of Riga, enjoying an ice-cold latte and watermelon with friends and family will create fabulous memories to cherish. If you want to enjoy a refreshing cup of coffee at your picnic, the Riga coffee guide will help you. Alternatively, if you prefer various snacks, look up the Rīga Bakeries guide or explore different vegan-friendly options. And remember, if you want to enjoy amazingly tasty and cool ice cream, head to Molberts!
Experience the atmosphere of summer terraces
In the summer, when the sun shines down on the streets and buildings of Riga, it is almost a sin to spend time indoors. If you want to discover the most beautiful outdoor terraces in the capital where you can enjoy a cooling drink and satisfy your hunger, get to know the luxurious offerings of Riga's restaurants and cafes.
For those who desire a wide variety of choices within short distances, during the summer season in Old Riga you can find countless terraces, each suitable for different moods. For a cocktail evening with DJ rhythms in the background, visit B-Bar; for classics with modernist breezes, go to “Gūtenbergs” rooftop terrace for some amazing views of Old Town, Kaļķu Vārti terrace is a great choice. A charming courtyard terrace, offering various types of cider, can be found at Sidrērija. And if you're in the mood for cakes, coffee, and refreshing drinks, head to the mysterious Parunāsim Kafe'teeka. Experience the Old Town vibes at Barents terrace—this top restaurant offers excellent cold-water seafood and other seasonal delicacies from the local region.
Of course, Old Riga is not the only place in the city to relax on terraces. In the city center and the Quiet Center, there is much to offer so that everyone can find the most suitable place for them. Explore Whitehouse, Gūtenbergs Roof terrace, Annas Dārzs, Fabrika, Herbary, Zefīrs, and all the inviting terraces at Berga Bazaar!
You can find a more extensive list of the most beautiful summer terraces here!
