The night on the Old Town squares
The city throws a free, open-air party across the Old Town from about 21:00 on 31 December until 02:00. Several squares each get their own stage, with Latvian and international DJs and light shows projected onto the facades. The main spots are:
- Town Hall Square (Rātslaukums), in front of the House of the Blackheads.
- Līvu Square (Līvu laukums), always lively.
- Pils Square (Pils laukums), by the castle.
- The square by the Powder Tower (Pulvertornis) and along Kaļķu iela.
Just wander between them, it is all walkable and everyone is in a good mood.
Where to see the fireworks
At midnight the sky bursts over the city, and the biggest crowds gather along the 11 November Embankment (11. novembra krastmala) by the river, below the castle, for the main fireworks. You also get a great view from the bridges and from Bastejkalns park by the canal. Wrap up warm and get there a little early for a spot by the water.
Bars, clubs and New Year dinners
The Old Town bars and clubs are packed, and many restaurants put on a New Year's dinner or gala, so book ahead if you want a table. For where to eat and drink, see our food and drinks guide. Prices are still low by European standards, which is a big part of why Riga is such good value for New Year.
Latvian New Year traditions
A few local customs you might come across:
- Lead or wax pouring, melting a small piece and dropping it into cold water, then reading the shape to tell your fortune for the year.
- Twelve dishes on the table for luck, with a taste of each.
- Pīrāgi, small bacon rolls, are the classic party food.
- Making a wish as the clock strikes twelve, like everywhere, but with fireworks over a medieval skyline.
Practical tips
New Year's Eve in Riga is cold, often below zero, so dress in real layers, a warm coat and proper boots. The good news:
- The Christmas market on Cathedral Square stays open late, usually until 02:00, for a mulled wine before or after midnight.
- Everything is central and walkable; for transport and getting in from the airport see our getting around guide.
- Book your room and any restaurant early, the good places fill up. All of our residences are a short walk from the Old Town and the river.
Our picks on the map
These are some of our favourite spots in Riga. Open our full curated Google Maps list to see every pin on the map and navigate straight there from your phone.
- 11. novembra krastmala — the riverside, for the midnight fireworks
- Rātslaukums — Town Hall Square, a main stage
- Līvu laukums — Līvu Square, always lively
- Pils laukums — Castle Square, by the river
- Bastejkalns — canal park, a good fireworks view
Your base in central Riga
All of our residences are a short walk from the Old Town, the Central Market and Miera iela. Furnished rooms, all bills included, for your semester or a few nights.
See available rooms →