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So once again Christmas is upon us...for some this means more expense and hassle, to others it presents the opportunity to hunt for the best Christmas markets in Europe. Munich, Vienna and Prague provide the typically beautiful festive treats that any Christmas market demands.
1510....isn't a year that should ring too many bells, unless you travel to Riga. It is claimed that Riga was the home of the first ever Christmas Tree, the original location is now marked by a commemorative stone outside the impressive House of Blackheads.
So where better to do some traditional Christmas shopping, than the home of one one of the most festive symbols. All be it a smaller market than the afore mentioned, it still contains bundles of charm. Below we have listed the best places to get into the festive spirit;
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The main market is located in Doma Laukums (Dome Square). High above the market towers the impressive spire of Dome Church (3 guesses for the shape of the spire), this is a pleasant cobbled square that has smaller streets running off in all directions. | |
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The next place we recommend is called Līvu Laukums, another pretty square with some form of entertainment normally going on. There are also a number a good restaurants that line the square, including Kalku Varte, a good place to stop for a Hot Black Balzams a herbal liquor that Latvians swear by during the cold winter months. | |
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Esplanāde, this is a picturesque area after fresh snowfall. Its a park just off of Brīvības iela (Freedom Street) close to Hotel Lavtia and Essential Night Club. From here you can also explore the embassy district of Riga with some of the most impressive Art Nouveau buildings in the World. | |
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Closed during Soviet times Berga Bazars is an up and coming area with restaurants neatly tucked away from the busy outside world. Hosting a market of local produce here every other weekend Berga Bazaars is certainly gaining a well deserved reputation for providing a quality market with some great shops to warm yourself up in. This is well worth a visit over the Christmas period as it promises to provide some interesting stalls and gifts. |
Where ever you decide to go over the Christmas period in Riga, you are sure to find something to put you in the festive mood. There are many smaller markets dotted around the city, so don't be afraid to have a wander and discover your own little festive world.
