The Origin Of The Decorated Christmas Tree in Riga, Latvia

Origin of the decorated Christmas tree

Decorating of the Christmas tree began in the 15th century in Eastern Europe; both Latvia and the neighboring Estonia claim to have had the first decorated Christmas tree. Although we may never know the exact origin of the first Christmas tree in Latvia, the first documented use of a decorated tree during winter celebrations was recorded in 1510 in Riga Town Hall Square. This “first” tree was decorated with paper shapes, ribbons, dried flowers, and straw figures. After decoration and enjoyment, the tree was burned (probably to scare away winter).

Christmas markets

Huddled around Christmas trees and braced for the snow are numerous Christmas markets and stalls. In these quaint markets, you’ll be able to taste traditional warming treats such as hot wine or beer, warmed Riga Black Balsam (a liquor made of Balsam Fir), roasted nuts, gingerbread, smoked meats, and more. Bring cash (the currency is EUR) and be prepared to purchase gifts for everyone on your list. Expect to see expertly knitted woolen mittens, jars of local honey, wicker products, and other handicrafts.

In all of the markets tucked around the city, you’ll find live music, dancing in the evenings, colorful lights, and happy children (and families) frolicking in the snow.

Enjoy a large Christmas market in Dome Square (next to the Dome Cathedral). Here you’ll find little wooden houses, a riot of colorful decorations, and of course, a large decorated tree. In Livu Square, you’ll also find a Christmas market; this market is composed of little blue and white tents, Christmas trees, and rides for children. Riga’s third Christmas market is set up in Esplanade Park.

Other things to see

Even though the weather will be cold, Riga should be explored more extensively than just visiting its Christmas markets and finding out the truth about the Christmas tree. If you are interested in architecture, I’d suggest a self-guided walking tour of Riga’s Art Nouveau buildings — of which it has the largest collect in the world. You can find Art Nouveau architecture throughout the city although much of it is concentrated on Alberta Street, Elizabetes Street, and Smilsu Street. Keep a lookout for ornate buildings, faces, and figures.

If photography (or spies) is one of your interests, the Latvian Museum of Photography displays a fascinating collection of tiny Minox cameras (which were used by spies), photographs taken with Minox cameras, and the history of the production of Minox cameras, which were first produced in Latvia.

Of course, while in Riga, you should also be sure to wander the old town to see the House of Blackheads, the Church of St. Peter, the Dome Cathedral, and the Three Brothers. Also keep a look out for the Cat House, the Monument of Freedom (which you can’t miss as it is very tall), Riga Castle, and Powder Tower. There is an incredible amount to see in Riga’s large old town.