Fabulous Riga for the New Year. Trip to Riga for the New Year Restaurants in Riga for the New Year
I always try to go somewhere for the New Year. Yes, prices are highest on these dates, but you can’t just take advantage of the week off and stay home. And I finally decided to visit Latvia and, in fact, celebrate the New Year in Riga. There wasn’t a lot of money and the closest foreign countries were from St. Petersburg, and even with your own car, they were Finland, Estonia and Latvia. I’ve already been to the first two more than once, so the choice was obvious.
Of course, I took the dog with me, because if I go somewhere by car, the dog is always with me. If we are flying by plane, there are options.
I have already talked about that winter trip to Latvia, namely about Cesis Castle and where you can eat cheaply in Riga, and today I will continue and tell you what we did in the remaining days and what happens in Riga on New Year’s Eve.
The easiest way to travel is by your own car, but in my route all places are accessible by car. public transport. Therefore, if you are going to come to Riga by bus or train, then you can safely go to the point “Riga in winter”. For those driving their own transport, you should start from the “Passing the border” point.
If we choose to travel to Latvia by car, and this is a very good option for a winter trip, then first of all we need to decide through which border point we will pass the border. There are several options and they depend, firstly, on what kind of visa you have, multi-Schengen or one-time Latvian, and secondly, on what day you will go. The closer New Year, the more traffic jams at the border.
I advise you to apply for a green card in advance so as not to waste time on it on the way. Having passed follow this link and call the code “sisters” you will receive a special offer that you cannot refuse and will save not only time.
I also advise you to buy, perhaps, the cheapest insurance in Schengen from Alfa insurance. Cheap, but with good conditions and assistance. You can buy it online or at the company’s office.
We chose for ourselves the option through Pskov and the border with Estonia in the Shumilkino area and we were right. This is the shortest route, and on the Estonian side the checkpoint has been expanded and repaired, so the throughput is high.
If you do not want to put an Estonia stamp on your Latvian visa, so as not to spoil future relations with Latvians, then you need a road through the checkpoint near the village of Pytalovo. However, remember that there is still a large flow of traffic from Moscow through Pytalovo.
Well, for Muscovites the option is also available through Pytalovo, the fastest, or through Zasitino. But they say it is often busy.
Here is a travel map from Moscow and St. Petersburg to Riga across the Latvian or Estonian borders.
On the way back, if you choose to return home across the border with Estonia, do not forget, the queue at the Estonian border must be booked in advance!! How to do this and about the electronic queue at the Estonian border I wrote in this article.
Route, how many days you need, where to go from Riga
We were in Latvia for the New Year from December 31 to January 4. Moreover, we spent the last day in Tartu waiting in line at the border. I believe that 4-5 days is optimal for such a trip in light of the current exchange rate of the ruble against the euro.
1st and 2nd days Riga.
3rd day trip to Cesis (city, park, castle)
Day 4 Sigulda (castle, park, bobsleigh track)
Day 5 trip to Jurmala
Day 6, way home
Or, as we did:
Days 1-2 Riga, day 3 Cesis and Sigulda (only castles and park), day 4 Jurmala morning and evening arrival in Tartu. Day 5: Half day walk around Tartu and home at 3 pm.
Tartu is located close to the border. We drove back the same way through Shumilkino, because driving through Narva was closer and 3 hours faster, but there was no free time at the border at all!! Book in advance!! Moreover, during our stay there was terrible snowfall and the roads were not cleared. We were driving very slowly and there were a lot of accidents. From Riga to St. Petersburg in one day, only if you don’t go to Jurmala, but go home straight away in the morning.
Riga on New Year's Day
My opinion about Riga during the New Year holidays may differ radically from the opinion of the majority, but I will say right away that I didn’t really like it. New Year in Europe in general is such a story, it’s not for everyone. No matter how much I went anywhere for the New Year holidays, the same thought was everywhere - the holiday should be inside you. But if the central streets of large Russian cities are still at least decorated and New Year's illumination creates a certain atmosphere, this is not the case in Riga.
Yes, the Christmas market on Town Hall Square is open, but not like in early December, when it first opens. They sell mulled wine, souvenirs and everything. And then, without any fun.
What's in Riga for the New Year itself?
Yes, actually the same thing as before - we walk, drink. This is for those who are simply planning to walk around the city on New Year's Eve.
Around midnight, people gather on the embankment, there is a fenced off area with a stage inside. Dogs are not allowed there, but of course I took mine with me. I didn’t go back to the hotel to leave him there. But it was still forbidden to bring your own booze inside, so many remained outside with bottles of champagne.
By the way, in Riga you also can’t buy alcohol after 10 p.m.. Therefore, take care of champagne in advance. The street kiosks that will be placed in city squares will only sell mulled wine.
At midnight, fireworks thunder and the entire crowd begins to shout and congratulate, not those who are nearby, but every third person at the monitor screen. All voices carry congratulations around the world from this small spot on the embankment. That's all. Afterwards, everyone wanders around the city, eating hot dogs and drinking, drinking, drinking.
There is an option to book a table and spend a festive 12 hours until midnight in a restaurant with animation, but this is also not for everyone. I must say that in Tallinn on New Year there is the same “joy”.
Actually, I don't have any photos New Year's city. There was no desire and there was nothing special to photograph.
About the weather in Riga on New Year's Eve
Take heart, it will be as “warm” as in St. Petersburg and, perhaps, colder than in Moscow. More precisely, I was terribly chilled there from the wind and dampness. Yes, in St. Petersburg it’s also always damp and windy, but at home I don’t spend all my time along rivers and canals, but here, walking around the center, one way or another you will come across the wind.
Dress warmly, that's what I can advise. And in the morning, on the first, snow fell and continued to fall until our departure from Latvia. The city fell asleep and walking around it became even sadder and colder.
This is what Riga is like in winter.
The capital of Latvia was covered in snow during the New Year holidays.
We lived near the center, opposite the central market, and ran to the hotel or to the cafe to warm up.
If you have never been to Riga before, then probably spend a couple of days walking around winter city and sightseeing is enough for you. There is nothing else to do here in winter, unless you are lucky with the weather. But in any case it will not be Africa.
And after you have looked at the capital, walked around the center, celebrated the New Year and bought warm knitted souvenirs, you can go further around the country. Daylight hours are short, so leave early.
Cesis
One of these days, visit Cesis. I really liked it, especially the park next to the castle, which looked like it came out of Bregel’s paintings.
And just walking around the town itself is very pleasant.
Sigulda
If you want to look at the castle in Sigulda, go here after Cesis on the way back. However, if you have some time, you can visit this city on a separate day. There is a very big one here national park Gauja, as well as a bobsleigh track, from which you can slide down on a professional car or skeleton, accompanied by an instructor.
But even just walking around Sigulda Castle is still some kind of variety from walking along the same streets of Riga.
Jurmala
I’m unlikely to go here a second time for the New Year, but for a change in celebrating the annual change of the calendar, why not? By the way, you can discard the option of traveling to Riga by car and buy an inexpensive plane ticket (the money may also be cheaper than a car). You can get around Latvia using public transport. The articles describe how and what to get where.
How to always be online when traveling?
Buy a euro card for internet and calls. I personally have an Orange card choose a card and tariffHow do I save on hotels?
It’s very simple - look not only on booking. I prefer the search engine RoomGuru. He searches for discounts on Booking and 70 other booking sites simultaneously.It's hard to argue with the charm of the New Year holidays in European cities. If you have not been to the Baltic countries, it is worth planning a trip to Riga for the New Year 2020.
The city is imbued with a festive atmosphere, and guests will always find something to do during their trip. In addition, most residents are friendly towards Russian tourists, and there are no problems with the language barrier in Riga.
Latvia is a Catholic country, holidays here begin earlier than in Russia. Riga is decorated for the New Year at the end of November, and the main New Year tree in the city is installed on Dome Square. Open on holidays New Year's fair, stores have sales, and mulled wine is sold on the central streets of the city.
If you want to catch the Christmas fun and celebration, it is better to come to Riga for Catholic Christmas. The fact is that residents of Latvia do not have New Year holidays like in Russia, and on January 2 many go to work. It’s worth going to Riga for the New Year to celebrate the holidays several times. Riga residents celebrate Catholic Christmas on December 24, then New Year's Eve twice: in Russian and Latvian time. And then the Russian part of the population celebrates Christmas on January 7th. Travelers more often celebrate the New Year in city establishments or in hotel restaurants. And by midnight, local residents gather on the embankment on November 11, set off fireworks, sing songs, dance and congratulate each other on the upcoming holiday.
It is worth considering in advance that in Riga on December 31 there are shortened working hours at supermarkets, markets and museums. And if you want to purchase alcohol for the holiday, you must do this before 22.00.
Weather in New Year's Riga
When choosing clothes to take with you, take into account the changeable weather. The average temperature during the holidays is -3⁰С. But in winter, strong winds from the bay are possible. Because of this, the temperature drops to -15⁰C and, combined with the wind, makes long walks difficult. Snow falls in Riga every year, but due to frequent thaws it quickly melts. Those who plan to go out on New Year's Eve should also take warm clothes with them on their trip - the temperature drops even lower and the wind only gets stronger.
How to get to Riga - cheap tickets for the New Year
To visit Riga you need an open Schengen visa, which is issued at visa centers in all major cities. From possible ways these are: air travel, train, car. If you choose the flight or train option, keep in mind that direct connections to Riga are only available from St. Petersburg or Moscow. Traveling by plane will be the most in a fast way, but flight prices always increase during the holidays.
But train tickets usually run out long before the holidays. You can check availability in the form below.
On New Year's Day you can go to Riga by car. There are two routes: through Belarus or along the M-9 highway to the border with Latvia. You must have documents for all travelers, car documents, green card and medical insurance. The road to Latvia is easy, has a good surface, and in winter there are few cars and no traffic jams.
How to celebrate New Year in Riga Restaurants
It is not customary for residents of Riga to celebrate the New Year in restaurants and cafes. On New Year's Eve, they first have dinner at home with their family, and by midnight they arrive at Old city. That is why not all restaurants are open at night on December 31st, and in those that are open, it is better to book a table in advance.
One of the most famous restaurants where you can celebrate the holiday is “Rozengrals”. The interior of the establishment is made in medieval style, musicians play, and chefs prepare exquisite European dishes. Next to the Blackheads' house there is a restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and local cuisine Salve.
When choosing where to celebrate New Year in the Old Town, you should pay attention to other restaurants serving Latvian cuisine. These could be Zviedru varti, Milda and Neiburgs Restaurant. And not far from the Old Town there is the Bellevue Park restaurant. The holiday starts at 21.00, and guests are treated to competitions, entertainment, and fireworks. And all this with panoramic views of the city.
Where to stay in Riga for the New Year holidays
In all large hotels Rigi conducts New Year's banquet. The festive banquet is held in Russian, and in addition to the entertainment program of events, a photographer works throughout the evening. Guests can take advantage of the steam bath, massage or fitness centre.
There is a hotel in the center of the Old Town in a 15th century building. All main attractions are 5-10 minutes away. The hotel's bedrooms are furnished with modern furniture, but the restaurant, corridors and other rooms are furnished in the spirit of Old Riga. You can celebrate New Year in the hotel restaurant and taste national cuisine.
Another option in the Old Town is. Hotel guests will live on a quiet street close to museums, Town Hall Square and theaters. In addition to cozy rooms, the building itself has a spa center, a gym, and a beauty treatment room. A New Year's program for guests is organized in a small restaurant at the hotel.
If you want to live in an old building, but the Old Town is not suitable, take a closer look at the hotel. It is located not far from the old center, but there is not so much noise and crowds around. In addition, the entire hotel interior is furnished in a traditional style with wooden furniture and soft carpets. And you can celebrate the New Year in the restaurant at the Benjamins Hotel.
If you already know where to go for the New Year, then consider staying in an apartment (). There are options for spacious and bright apartments on narrow streets Rigi. This could be a small Scandinavian-style apartment, or a spacious apartment for a large group. It is not necessary to live in the Old Town. On New Year's Eve, transport is free, which means that after a walk around the city, you can easily get to your apartment and continue the festive dinner.
Tours for the New Year 2020 in Riga
Not everyone likes to plan a trip in detail, study the list of events for the holidays, or select hotels. In this case, you should turn to professionals and buy a ready-made New Year's tour to Riga. Tour includes sightseeing tour around the city and, if desired, a trip to the suburbs of Riga. This could be Jurmala, Turaida Castle or Rundai Palace. Tasting excursions or trips to the theater or concert are organized around the city. Some programs include trips to Tallinn or Vilnius.
The price of the tour does not include a gala dinner; in some cases, the tourist must pay for the flight or travel independently, as well as prepare a visa independently.
Prices for holidays in Riga for the New Year
Latvia belongs to the countries of the European Union, but prices here are much lower than in Central European countries. The average check in establishments for dinner is no more than 35 euros. For greater savings, you can dine in small canteens. The taste and quality of the dishes there are not inferior, and the prices will be lower. When choosing a place to live, you don’t have to compromise on price and location.
The cost of hotels and apartments is approximately the same in all areas of the city. There will be a noticeable difference in price only on the outskirts of the city. At the same time, in comparison with Russia, gasoline is much more expensive in Riga and parking is paid. Car enthusiasts need to choose hotels with private free parking or leave the car off-center.
What else to see in Riga and what to do on your free days.
Riga has many friendly citizens who are happy to spend individual tour around the city or its environs. For a greater immersion in the history of the city, walks exploring architectural trends in the city are suitable.
A third of the buildings in the city are built in Art Nouveau style. This is a separate branch of the Art Nouveau style, which has long been controversial due to its excessive decorativeness, smooth lines and unusualness. It’s worth going on excursions to hear the legends of the city and look at the houses that were featured in famous Soviet films.
Excursions in Riga for the New Year
There are many objects in Riga that attract tourists. And, of course, it’s interesting to see them with a guide who will not only show you unusual sights, but also tell you amazing stories.
What to do during the New Year holidays in Riga with children
Riga is suitable for traveling with a child. Children love the holiday atmosphere, and there will be plenty of it here. You may have to go to a cafe to warm up more often during your walks, but this will not spoil your trip. Contests, competitions, and games are organized for children in the Old Town.
If you plan to celebrate the New Year in a restaurant, then check in advance about a separate room for children. Some establishments provide separate entertainment for children on New Year's Eve. New Year's performances for children are held here at the Moscow House and at the Riga Chekhov Theater.
Riga is beautiful at any time of the year, but decorated with festive lights for Christmas and New Year it becomes simply fabulously beautiful. A Christmas market takes place on Duma Square, where you can taste traditional Latvian treats - delicious smoked meats, hot mulled wine, piparkukas cookies, fried almonds. Musicians perform on the square every day.
Riga restaurants offer various holiday programs to make the New Year unforgettable.
I offer several interesting options New Year's Eve 2013 in Riga restaurants:
Zilā Govs
The Blue Cow is an elegant tavern-style restaurant serving national Latvian cuisine. Located in one of the charming medieval buildings Old Riga. The pride and principle of the restaurant is environmentally friendly Latvian products.
The spacious restaurant seats 80 people and is decorated in a historical style with an original interior. Specializes in cooking steaks. 20 types of steaks are cooked on hot stones, and you will also be offered to try traditional Latvian dishes.
The blue cow is not a metaphor or an invented brand, it is an ancient Latvian breed of cows that actually exists. Some legends claim that the local cows got such an unusual color due to Baltic Sea, whose water they drink year after year. Others believe that this is a truly aristocratic animal, in whose veins blue blood flows. In any case, you are guaranteed wonderful steaks!
New Year's Eve: Special New Year's menu. Live music and folk ensemble "RIJA".
The beginning of the evening is 12/31/12 at 21.00. Cost - 21 LVL (30€) per person (price includes: entertainment and welcome drink).
Table reservation: +371 67223307 E-mail: [email protected]
Address: Livu Square, Meistaru 21, Riga (Livu, Meistaru 21, Riga)
Ciro's Pomodoro
The Italian restaurant is located on the 7th floor of the Galleria Riga shopping center from the windows of which there are excellent views of Christmas Old Riga. On New Year's Eve, the chef will delight guests with the most exquisite dishes of Italian and European cuisine.
NEW YEAR'S BALL PROGRAM
Gourmet gala dinner a la carte.
World-famous melodies performed live by the winner of the international Eurovision Song Contest Maria Naumova.
Incendiary dance rhythms from the jazz group Keksa.
A bright masquerade, during which each guest of the evening will be able to transform into his favorite Russian or Hollywood actor.
Numerous surprises and fun competitions.
The culmination of the ball will be the most colorful fireworks at midnight from the best panoramic terrace in the city.
CHILDREN'S PROGRAM on New Year's Eve
Special children's holiday menu.
Fairy-tale characters await children on New Year's Eve - Lisa Patrikeevna, Grandma-Zabavushka and, of course, Father Frost and the Snow Maiden.
Masquerade costumes, funny games, funny pranks, competitions, a wonderful workshop, performances with trained animals, magic tricks and the opportunity to do bright face painting.
Each child receives an individual approach!
The restaurant promises the most delicious cuisine, an unforgettable experience New Year's Eve and the most beautiful fireworks in the city!
Address: st. Dzirnavu 67, t/c Gallery Riga, 7th floor (Dzirnavu iela 67, t/c Galleria Riga 7. stāvā)
PRICE: 149 LVL (212 €) per person (price includes: New Year's program, gala dinner, 3 glasses of champagne)
- Children 3-12 years old – 65% discount,
- up to 2 years old – free of charge (without taking up a separate seat, but including a children’s menu and program)
More details on the website www.cirospomodoro.lv
PIRAMĪDĀ
Radisson Blu Hotel Ridzene invites you to celebrate the New Year at the Pyramid restaurant on December 31, 2012, starting at 20:00.
A special New Year's menu and live music await you.
The restaurant is located next to the American Embassy on a quiet street in Reimers. The highest level of service, an elegant menu, an original interior and a beautiful view of the ancient Riga Esplanade Park make this place incredibly attractive and sincere.
The restaurant's chef, Ilze Melne, knows the secrets of Italian, French and Mediterranean cuisine. You can't go wrong with dishes like turbot fillet, baked in parchment and served with vegetables, or spicy-crusted grilled lamb rack with eggplant caviar and rosemary sauce. And the view of the twinkling starry sky accompanied by the soft sounds of live music will make the festive evening unforgettable.
Price: 41 LVL (59 €) per person
Booking phone: +371 6709 3333
Address: st. Reimersa iela 1, Riga
Rozengrāls
The medieval restaurant Rozengrals is located in the very center of Old Riga, on Rozena Street. Also inIn 1293, here was the oldest wine cellar and the venue for festivals and celebrations of the Riga Duma!
In the very big hall Restaurant with high arches you can see the only medieval well in Riga and a fragment of the fortress wall built in 1201.
The restaurant is known for its delicious dishes prepared according to ancient recipes! Try for example
Jacques de Molay's favorite salad -
The salad for the Grand Master of the Templar Order, Jacques de Molay, was prepared from roast beef, sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, flavored with vinegar infused with herbs. Or
Stewed hare with prunes and pine nuts. This dish was served at the wedding table of Isabella of Bavaria in the 14th century.
For the New Year, the restaurant offers an interesting New Year's program accompanied by medieval music performed by the group "Medieval Musicians Rozengrals"
Address: Rozena street 1, Riga
Table reservations on the website http://www.rozengrals.lv (in Russian)
Pinot
Elegant French restaurant with excellent cuisine. Located on Town Hall Square.
New Year's party starts 12/31/12 at 20.00 ends at 02.00 am
The program includes live music and a chef show from the Pinot restaurant.
Menu of 3 courses. Price: 70 LVL (100€) per person
Menu of 5 courses Price: 90 LVL (128€) per person
A glass of Taittinger Brut champagne,
French toast with octopus slices and shrimp ice cream,
Ginger pie with duck jam,
Rock flounder fillet with vegetable stew,
Lightly seared venison with Jerusalem artichoke, cranberries and rowan marmalade,
Layered chocolate truffle cake with cherry marmalade and pistachio ice cream.
Address: st. Grēcienieku iela 26, Riga.
reservations by phone: +371 6722 5616
Happy upcoming holiday!
Hello everybody! The first New Year's trees have already been installed in Riga. They'll start decorating this weekend! New Year is coming! But readers still have questions.
I tried to get away from the topic: Cafes and restaurants in Riga for the New Year (no personal experience). Nothing worked out for me!!! The people demand!!! :))) Due to numerous requests from workers, I am opening a page for your comments, suggestions, advice and reviews on the topic:
Christmas market on Dome Square. December 3, 2012. Dome Cathedral before New Year 2013. Dinner is prepared right on the street, on Dome Square.
Cafes and restaurants in Riga for the New Year.
— Where to celebrate the New Year in RIGA (cafes, restaurants) with reasonable prices? (up to 50 euros/person). Thank you.
- Good afternoon! My friends and I are also planning to celebrate the New Year in Riga! Please recommend a restaurant where you can have a great meal and spend 50 euros per person!
Almost an answer, reader comment:
— A general observation from numerous travels is that it is useless to ask local residents about restaurants and hotels - they eat and live at HOME! Well, at best they will indicate the local equivalent of LIDO, if there is one. Sometimes information can be obtained at the hotel, from the owners of the apartments. But here they can send you not to where it is better and cheaper, but to a biased place. In Kuldiga, for example, at 10-00 pm the reception said that everything was already closed and the only place, where they are open until 23 - some kind of bar with American fast food on pedestrian street not far from the hotel. Where we had to dine on extremely healthy deep-fried dishes. And in the morning we discovered a wonderful antique basement restaurant with a Latvian-Russian menu, open until 12-00, right under the information center building. Konstantin.
Answer: Yulianna and Natalia! Welcome to the blog!
From personal experience, I’m not at all an adviser on this issue. I have never had to book a table for New Year in a cafe or restaurant. We first celebrate at home, with our family. And at night we go to Old Riga. Transport this night is free. Last year everyone celebrated on the Embankment! On New Year's Eve there is a general folk festival in the center of Riga! Christmas trees, fireworks, disco, food and drink stalls! We meet friends there. We take with us approximately: pies, sweets, “baskets”, tangerines, champagne and plastic glasses. Meeting the fireworks on the Embankment, then Dome Square, Livu Square, Bastion Hill, etc. to the Esplanade. Funny! There are a lot of people. Noisy. You can wear masks, noses, ears, costumes, New Year decorations!
A few personal observations on the topic Cafes and restaurants in Riga for the New Year.
* On New Year's Eve, many cafes and restaurants have SPECIAL SERVICE. For visitors from the street - CLOSED. Firms, companies, organizations rent entire restaurants to celebrate the New Year. The cafe is open, but they will NOT let you in.
* Of course, it is better to book in advance.
* Prices. New Year's!!! At least double the price. The markup will be decent!
* Anyway, everyone goes outside to celebrate the New Year, rather than sitting at tables.
I personally don’t know any cafes and restaurants on New Year’s Eve for 50 Euros... maybe there are... we don’t use them.
I will try to put it on the agenda for general discussion. Can anyone give us some advice? So, take a look!
Not even a week has passed...
Ladies and Gentlemen! Feedback on the blog works well! This time Konstantin kindly shared the information.
Cafes and restaurants in Riga for the New Year.
- Good afternoon!
A report on how I looked for a “catering establishment” for a meeting in 2014 and what ended up happening.
The task was not to sit all evening trying to “eat the elephant”, but to have dinner at 9 pm and go meet NG on the streets of Riga. If we freeze, we have a hotel in the very center.
1. Restaurant at the hotel - http://www.ambiente.lv/
The very center, the Convention Courtyard. The restaurant did not answer, but the hotel unexpectedly responded:
» Good afternoon, Mr. *****
Thanks for your letter!
Attached is information about our New Year's offer at the Ambiente restaurant.
Free cancellation or payment before 12/01/2013. After this date the money will not be refunded.
Please contact us if you decide to make a reservation or have any questions!
We will be glad to welcome you at the Konventa Seta Hotel!”
Attached is a standard program with musicians, presidential anthems and all sorts of food without alcohol (1 glass of wine) for 65Lv/93EU per person from 21 to 2 am
That is almost 400 euros for a meal! Rejected with indignation! Not our format!
2. Medieval restaurant in an ancient cellar. Famous place.
I will be glad if it is useful to someone.
Konstantin.
For which many thanks to Konstantin and gratitude from me personally!
By the way, Konstantin took the very right path. I set a specific task! I composed a text with numbers and wishes. I sent letters to several addresses. Got answers. Compare. Chose. Booked the best option! Great job! :)))
Everyone noticed that the proposals are enormously different! 🙁
Take action if you haven’t yet booked a table in a Restaurant for the New Year in Old Riga. Search! Choose! Write to them! Compare answers! If it’s not difficult, send your results too! Let's put together our list: Cafes and restaurants in Riga for the New Year.
Now I’ll see where these “Melnie muki” are. This is in Yanya Seta. A small medieval courtyard on the site of a former Dominican monastery. Very close to St. Peter's Church. Perhaps other blog readers will decide to celebrate the New Year there too
Here, too, they prepare Olivier, pour jellied meat, put herring under a fur coat and buy tangerines... And you can clink glasses with champagne on New Year’s Eve twice - on New Year’s Day in Russian time, and an hour later in Latvian time! And listen to the presidents - two too...
New Year holidays 2018 in Latvia and Russia
Weekends for Christmas and New Year in Latvia and Russia are few, but they overlap. Christmas weekend in Latvia in 2017 - from December 23 to 26,New Year holidays- only 3 days - from December 30 to January 1, 2018.
In Russia New Year's weekend will last the traditional 10 days - from January 30 to January 8, 2018.
Why go to Riga, Latvia for New Year?
- Latvia is nearby. From Moscow or St. Petersburg - one night by train or 1.5-2 hours by plane, from 10 hours by comfortable bus or by car (from 12 hours).
- In Latvia and Riga they speak Russian! They will understand you everywhere (restaurants/cafes, hotels, museums, theaters...) and will be happy to advise you and tell you everything that interests you.
- Comfortable weather. In Latvia, Christmas and New Year are relatively warm. And if you're lucky, there will be snow!
- It's delicious here! Coffee with a bun or a gourmet dinner - in restaurants and cafes in Riga - is always delicious. And don't forget to plan a visit to the Central Riga Market. Here you should definitely try smoked chicken, fish of different varieties and types of preparation, cheese with cumin, real rye bread, fresh homemade beer, smoked meats...
- Vibrant cultural life. The organ in the Dome Cathedral, the ballet at the Latvian Opera, the Riga Russian Theater... But it’s better to book tickets for performances during the New Year holidays in advance - at least a month in advance!
- Riga doesn’t sleep at night, especially on Christmas and New Year! Take a walk along the streets of the Old Town, stop by a pub, listen to live music in a restaurant... At midnight in Riga another life begins!
Why go to Riga for the New Year - more options!
Riga is the birthplace of the New Year tree!
The Christmas tree may not be the main thing, but it is a very compelling argument why go to Riga for the New Year!
The world's first New Year tree was installed in Riga in 1510.
Be sure to find in Old Riga - near the house of the Blackheads - the place where the world's first city Christmas tree was displayed. The place is marked with a memorial - a slab on which it is written that it was here, on this very spot, that the world's first Christmas tree was installed in 1510.
And in honor of the 500th anniversary of the first city New Year tree in the Old Town - on the corner of the street. Kalku and Tirgonu, in the park rest Egle — installed a large mirrored fir tree in Art Nouveau style with the Riga cockerel, of course. Now the mirror spruce is one of the main symbols of modern Riga and an indispensable place for a souvenir photo.
The choice of main Christmas trees for the holidays in Riga is still a matter of concern. Usually he is accompanied by children's groups of the city and other important officials...
The most important spruce tree stands every year in Old Riga on Dome Square. In total, about 20 live Christmas trees are installed throughout Riga every year - large and not very large.
How is New Year celebrated in Riga?
New Year in Riga, Latvia is celebrated more modestly than Catholic Christmas. And if they prefer to celebrate Christmas quietly at home with family and friends, then on New Year’s Day the residents of Latvia themselves either visit guests or take to the streets and squares of cities. To sing, dance, and of course, watch the fireworks!
On New Year's Day in Riga, residents and guests of Latvia meet on the embankment on November 11 (11.novembra krastmala). Every year is special here The cultural program with performances by musicians, popular bands, DJs. At midnight (local time) - festive fireworks! Cafes and benches traditionally operate on the Embankment, and here you can warm up near real fires (they are safely equipped).
And by the way, on New Year’s Eve in Riga and throughout the country you can...
bitternsomething strongeron the street. And nothing will happen to you for this! Therefore, many people come to the Embankment “with their own,” or you can buy alcohol right there in the cafe. The local government police work in an enhanced format during the holidays. So you don’t have to worry about safety.
New Year in Riga - where to go and where to celebrate?
New Year's fairs and markets in Riga
From the beginning of December, Christmas markets and markets open in Riga. They host a brisk trade in souvenirs and gifts, and prepare traditional winter dishes of Latvian cuisine - gray peas with lard, sausages, stewed sauerkraut...
On Saturdays and Sundays on Dome Square And in Egle Park guests will enjoy a rich cultural program - folk groups, popular groups, DJs will perform... Children usually have something to do here too (master classes, sports competitions, performances, pony rides...)
Christmas markets in Riga are open:
- the most important fair is open in Old Riga - on Dome Square (Doma laukums). December 31st opens from 10:00 to 18:00.
- in Egle Park(open-air recreation park "Yolka" on Kalkyu street),
- on Līvu laukums square,
- on the Esplanade. Fair in the park between Elizabetes streets, Kr. Valdemara, Brivibas and Kalpaka boulevards) - known for its entire rabbit city. Here, in real miniature houses, real rabbits live!
- Christmas Fair at the Academy of Arts of Latvia - relatively new tradition in Riga . Here you can view and buy original designer hand-made items, artwork, creative souvenirs and gifts. December 27, 28, 29, 30the fair is openfrom 11:00 to 20:00.
You can also visit the farmers market in Kalnciema quarter. . Throughout December the market is open on Saturdays and Sundays(December 31st is a short day here!).
And of course, for everything necessary for the festive table Riga residents and city guests go to the Central Market of Riga and Vidzeme Market(located on the corner of Brivibas and Matisa streets). The Central Market of Riga has the largest selection of products from all over Latvia! Here you should definitely choose aromatic smoked chicken and fish, buy sauerkraut, local honey, organic jam and pickles...New Year's fairs complement the bright festive kaleidoscope of Riga aromas of mulled wine, roasted almonds, and gingerbread cookies... Here you can look at and buy gifts of aromatic candles, woolen socks, hats and scarves with traditional patterns, wooden toys and rag dolls, amber jewelry and silverware...
New Year's mail from Santa Claus in Old Riga
When you are on Dome Square - be sure to find Santa Claus Mail. The real one is the festive branch of the Latvian Post Office. It won't be difficult to find this house by looking at the sign. Latvian pasts and a mailbox at the entrance. Here you can write and send a letter to Santa Claus at Veliky Ustyug, Santa Claus in Finland or the Latvian Ziemassvētku vecītis in Rutupe. The kiosk employees will tell you the addresses. You can also send holiday cards, letters, parcels and parcels to friends and family from here! Imagine how cool it is - they will receive news from the very heart of Riga, from the Old or New Year!
New Year's performances, concerts and festivals in Riga
New Year's performances for children in Russian are traditionally held at the Moscow House from December 24 to 29. The main Father Frost of Russia also comes - performances with him take place only for one day! You understand - it’s a full house!
Winter and New Year's performances are presented at the Riga Russian Theater named after Mikhail Chekhov ("The Snow Queen", "Winter" by E. Grishkovets, for example). Famous Russian theaters also come with their productions. In 2017, for example, tickets for the Nutcracker ballet from the Moscow City Ballet quickly sold out. To ensure that everyone could see the production, an additional showing of the ballet was organized.Traditionally, on Christmas and New Year, the “Way of Christmas Trees” festival is held in Riga. Every year, around 40 Christmas trees are installed throughout Riga at the beginning of December - brick, glass, wood, in general - different ones. The authors of unusual urban installations are professional artists, students of the Latvian Academy of Arts, and representatives of creative professions. Of course, Christmas trees look best in the evening. The map of Christmas trees can be downloaded/viewed on the festival website.
If you stay longer for the New Year holidays - You can attend Sherlock Holmes' birthday! A very stylish holiday - with competitions for the best image of your favorite TV series, retro cars, a vintage photo salon, etc. And they serve oatmeal here too, sir!
You can buy tickets for concerts and performances online— on the organizers’ websites or specialized online posters.
New Year in Riga - festive programs in restaurants and hotels
Traditionally, almost all large and famous hotels and restaurants in Riga, Jurmala, Sigulda prepare special programs for New Year's Eve. Already at the end of November you can choose and reserve a table for the New Year's party. And it’s better not to delay this - on the 10th of December, many parties no longer have empty seats!
How much do New Year's parties cost in hotels and restaurants in Riga, Latvia?
From 145 to 180 euros per person, children of different ages - discounts from 10% to 50%.
Room rates are paid separately. BUT! For New Year's Eve guests, as a rule, there are special prices for room reservations and late check-out.Guests arriving by car are provided with secure parking. New Year's events are usually held in Russian (with partial translation into Latvian and English).
What is included in the price of New Year's Eve in Riga, Jurmala:
- Welcome drink
- Festive buffet with appetizers and hot dishes;
- A glass of sparkling wine with dinner;
- Entertainment program (with host, DJ);
- Thematic performances, competitions and entertainment;
- Fireworks at midnight;
- Disco until 4:00 or 5:00 am on January 1st
- Children are usually offered the services of a children's room or a children's corner.
How are shops, museums and institutions open in Riga, Latvia for the New Year?
This means that all state, municipal and other institutions and organizations, museums and banks are not working (with the exception of bank branches in large shopping centers). There is no reception of visitors at Embassies and Consulates either (but duty phones usually work here).
How do shops, shopping centers and markets work in Riga for the New Year?
On December 31 and January 1, shops and markets in Riga and throughout Latvia are open with reduced hours.
December 30th All stores are open according to normal hours - after all, it’s a pre-holiday day. And if you don’t like the shopping rush, it’s better to avoid supermarkets on this day.
31th of December As a rule, supermarkets and hypermarkets are open 1-2 hours less - from 8:00 to 20:00, maximum until 21:00. There may be a stir - but less so!
1st of January shops start opening later - from 10:00, and some from 11:00. But in the evening, as a rule, according to the usual schedule. Supermarkets in Latvia are most often open until 22:00, hypermarkets - until 23:00.
Don't forget that alcohol in Riga, Latvia is sold only until 22:00!
Shopping centers in Riga also change their schedule for Christmas:
1st of January shopping centers prefer to rest. Only grocery supermarkets are open in shopping centers - but they start working from 11:00 or 12:00 and work less - until 20:00.
Riga Central Market On December 30 and 31, it is usually open from 8:00 to 17:00. Christmas markets in Old Riga and in the city center are open until a maximum of 18:00 on New Year's weekend. On January 1, the pavilions at the Central Market are closed, trading takes place only in the open area. Farmers' markets and Christmas markets are generally closed.
Pharmacies in Riga, Latvia are usually located in large shopping centers x centers or supermarkets networks Rimi, Maxima, ELVI, MEGO. Therefore, they usually operate on the same schedule as the stores or shopping centers themselves. If the pharmacy is already closed, then on holidays and weekends there should always be information on the doors - where the nearest 24-hour pharmacy is located.
Opening hours of shops, pharmacies, markets during the New Year holidays usually posted in advance at the entrance and published on websites. Therefore, when planning shopping for these days, choose a time convenient for you in advance!
How cafes and restaurants work in Riga for the New Year
Restaurants and cafes in Riga are busy on New Year's Day (as well as on Christmas Day). BUT! If you are planning to celebrate the New Year in a restaurant or in hotels, choose and book a table in advance. Otherwise, there is a chance you won’t get to where you really wanted. Read above about costs and programs for the New Year!
By the way, in restaurants in Riga it is customary to leave a tip - at least 10% of the order amount!
Cafes, bars, pubs and other catering establishments in Riga they also work all New Year's Eve. Various holiday programs are also held here - it’s also better to read about them and additional conditions in advance on the websites.
Favorite place for the whole family to relax on New Year's Eve in Riga —
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