The Rīga Art Nouveau Center on beautiful Alberta street has a special Christmas exhibition running from January 6 until January 12, showcasing various beautiful objects in the Art Nouveau or Jugendstil style, many of them from a golden age of Latvian art and design. There is also another exhibition called “Doll Stories” from artist Irina Vorkale.

Visitors of the museum will be delighted by four different Christmas trees, decorated with a Christmas mood and a magnificent collection of beautiful pastel and puppet suits by I. Vorkales.

Every year the museum Riga Art Nouveau Centre introduces the 20th century of a European folk Christmas tradition. For this edition, the 10th anniversary of the museum, the “Riga Art Nouveau Center” will show how, more than a Century ago, Christmas was celebrated in Riga, where various cultures and their influences were twisted. In the exhibition, the items from the museum are decorated according to the 19th and 20th centuries. The interleaved jewellery materials and techniques have been examined and copies have been produced by the artist Tamara Čudnovska.

About the Riga Art Nouveau Centre

This museum is the only museum in the Baltic States dedicated to the Art Nouveau heritage.

The building of the museum at Alberta iela 12 was built in 1903 as a private house of the famous Latvian architect Konstantīns Pēkšēns who designed it together with Eižens Laube. The façade of the monumental building boasts ornamental reliefs with stylised motifs of plants and animals occurring in Latvia. They have also been used in the interior design. The impressive spiral staircase is one of the most magnificent masterpieces not only in Riga, but also in Europe.

The museum features an authentic interior of an Art Nouveau apartment and a modern digital exposition. The interior has fully captured the essence of Art Nouveau starting with the layout of rooms, original wall paintings and plafonds and ending with furnishings. The interior displays furniture, tableware, artworks, clocks, clothing, embroidery and other items used in Riga.

Christmas is a magical time to visit Riga, Latvia’s capital, as the city transforms into a winter wonderland filled with festive cheer, historical charm, and cultural traditions. Here’s what makes Christmas in Riga an unforgettable experience:

Christmas Markets

Riga’s Christmas markets are among the most enchanting in Europe, with the largest one located in the heart of the Old Town at Doma Square. Stalls adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations offer a variety of handmade crafts, traditional Latvian foods, and holiday treats. Visitors can sip on mulled wine, enjoy gingerbread cookies, and shop for unique gifts like woolen mittens, wooden toys, and amber jewelry.

The entire city is beautifully decorated with Christmas lights and ornaments, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The streets are filled with the sounds of carolers and musicians performing holiday tunes, adding to the festive spirit. Historic buildings and squares are illuminated, highlighting Riga’s stunning architecture and making evening strolls particularly delightful.

Riga offers several outdoor ice skating rinks during the winter season. The rink at Līvu Square is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists, surrounded by cafes where you can warm up with a hot drink. Additionally, the nearby parks and forests provide opportunities for snowball fights, sledding, and scenic winter walks.

Cultural Events and Performances

Christmas in Riga is also a time for cultural enrichment, with numerous concerts, theater performances, and exhibitions taking place throughout the city. The Riga Cathedral hosts a series of Christmas concerts, featuring classical and choral music that resonates beautifully within the historic walls. Local theaters and opera houses often present special holiday performances, adding a touch of elegance to the festive season.

 Traditional Latvian Christmas

Experiencing Christmas in Riga offers a unique opportunity to delve into Latvian traditions. One such tradition is the “mummers’ play,” where people dress in elaborate costumes and masks, visiting homes to perform and bring good luck. Traditional Latvian holiday foods are also a highlight, including grey peas with bacon, piragi (small bacon pies), and the special Christmas dessert, piparkūkas (spiced cookies).

In addition to Christmas, Riga celebrates the Winter Solstice, a significant event in Latvian culture. Known as “Ziemassvētki,” the solstice marks the return of longer days and is celebrated with bonfires, folk songs, and rituals intended to bring prosperity and health for the coming year.

Art Nouveau and Historical Tours

Christmas provides a picturesque backdrop for exploring Riga’s rich architectural heritage, particularly its Art Nouveau buildings. Guided private tours, such as those offered by artnouveau.club (click HERE), can take you through the stunningly decorated streets and elaborate facades, providing insights into the city’s historical and cultural evolution. The combination of snow-covered rooftops and festive lights accentuates the beauty of Riga’s Art Nouveau district, making it a perfect time for photography and leisurely walks.

Christmas in Riga is a fantastic time filled with joyous celebrations, beautiful decorations, and a rich blend of traditions. Whether you’re exploring the bustling Christmas markets, enjoying winter sports, or immersing yourself in cultural events, the festive season in Riga offers a memorable and heartwarming experience.