From theatre festivals to whisky nights: Riga’s best weekend events

The **Riga Food 2026** fair is the Baltics’ largest food-industry exhibition, bringing together tastings, chef demos, trade stands and competitions showcasing Latvian and international cuisine. It’s ideal for food-loving visitors who want to sample local products and discover regional specialties in one place.

The **International Contemporary Theatre Festival “Homo Novus”** transforms Riga with experimental performances, installations and urban interventions. On its final Saturday, the programme typically includes multiple shows and site-specific works, making it perfect for culture-focused travellers.

The **Riga Whisky & Friends 2026** festival returns to Rīgas cirks for an evening of premium whiskies, cocktails and tastings led by leading Latvian bartenders and chefs. Expect masterclasses, a parade of international whisky brands and a lively social atmosphere indoors.

As part of **Homo Novus**, the festival’s education and “festival school” strand usually runs creative workshops and family-friendly activities introducing contemporary theatre to younger audiences. This is a good option for families who want to experience the festival without late-night shows.

The contemporary theatre festival **Homo Novus** typically includes exhibitions and installations in galleries and public spaces around the city. These visual art components allow visitors to explore experimental scenography and performance-related art at their own pace.

The **Riga Flea Market at Spīķeri** is a popular weekend market offering vintage clothing, vinyl records, toys, books, household items and local curios. Set by the river in the creative Spīķeri quarter, it makes for a relaxed browse between sightseeing stops.

The **90s R&B Night – Anna Ozoliņa Quartet feat. Mangilura** at MASA offers live band interpretations of classic 90s R&B tracks in an intimate club setting. It’s a fun way to experience Riga’s jazz and nightlife scene with familiar tunes and strong musicianship.

Later in the night, **Gennady Grinko’s Piano Performance – “Reflections”** at MASA presents a contemplative solo piano concert of original compositions. This atmospheric late-night show suits visitors looking for a more introspective musical experience.

The performance **“Play Dead” (Izlikties par beigtu)** at Rīgas cirks is part of the venue’s contemporary circus and theatre programme, blending physical theatre, circus techniques and visual storytelling. It’s ideal for travellers keen to see cutting-edge performance in a historic circus building.

The event **We Run Riga** brings runners together on a city route through key streets and landmarks, creating a festive sports atmosphere. Even if you’re not racing, it’s enjoyable to watch the start or finish and see Riga’s active side.

While the main programme of **Homo Novus** concentrates on weekdays and Saturday, some installations and documentation displays usually remain accessible on Sunday. Visitors staying through Sunday can still catch elements of the festival’s atmosphere and public-space works.

Although **Riga Food 2026** officially ends on 12 September, many exhibitors and restaurants in Ķīpsala and central Riga continue special menus and promotions into Sunday. Travellers can use Sunday to visit participating spots and enjoy extended food-focused experiences.

Bars and music venues around Old Town and the centre often host informal follow-up gatherings after the **Riga Whisky & Friends** festival, with whisky-focused menus and guest bartenders. Even without a formal programme, Sunday night is a good chance to sample curated whisky selections.

On Sunday, families can continue exploring **Homo Novus**’s more accessible outdoor works and installations, which are suitable for children and teenagers. Combined with walks through Old Town and riverfront areas, this offers a gentle, culture-rich day before departure.