Riga in July is a hub of music, culture, and outdoor activities. The Latvian capital comes alive with festivals, concerts, and local events catering to all tastes.
Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a foodie, or looking for an active outdoor adventure, Riga has something for everyone.
Let’s dive into the best events Riga has to offer this July!
Top festivals in Riga and regions
July is the perfect time to celebrate summer with music, food, and of course, festivals! No matter if you’re looking for a fun party with friends or a classy jazz event, you’ll find it all in Latvia.
Rīgas Ritmi Festival
Date: July 3–6
Jazz enthusiasts, rejoice! The Rīgas Ritmi Festival is an event with a stellar lineup of jazz, world, and improvisational music performances.
Taking place across various venues in Riga, this festival showcases both international stars and emerging talent.
Photo source: Rīgas Ritmi
It’s a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of jazz and discover new artists.
Laba Daba Festival
Date: July 12–14
The Laba Daba Festival is a standout event in Latvia’s summer calendar. Held at the scenic Ratnieki in Gauja National Park, this family-friendly festival blends music, art, and nature for a unique and immersive experience.
Photo source: Facebook
You can easily reach the festival from Riga by bus, train, or by renting a car, making it convenient for all visitors.
Positivus Festival
Date: July 19–20
Positivus is the largest music and arts festival in the Baltics. With over a decade of history, the Positivus Festival offers an impressive lineup of international and local artists, featuring performances across various genres.
Photo source: Facebook
Alongside the music, you can enjoy stunning art installations, diverse food stalls, and the lively summer atmosphere that makes this festival a standout event.
Photo source: Facebook
Pro tip: pack sunscreen and a hat – you’ll be dancing in the sun all day!
Jūrmala Festival
Date: July 13–20
Just a short train ride from Riga, the Jūrmala Festival is a summer highlight. Held at the scenic Dzintari Concert Hall, this festival features multiple outstanding performances by Latvian and international artists.
Photo source: Facebook
The festival spans various genres, including classical music, jazz, flamenco, and opera, ensuring a rich and diverse cultural experience.
Pro tip: combine your concert experience with a day at the beach. Bring your swimwear and sunscreen for sunbathing and a refreshing dip in the sea!
Cultural and community events
July is a fantastic time to experience community and leisure events in Riga.
From beautiful breakfast experiences to art exhibitions and concerts, there’s something to do for solo travellers and families alike.
Bryan Adams concert
Date: July 8
Iconic rock star Bryan Adams is set to light up the stage at the Arena Riga on July 8. Known for his timeless hits like “Summer of ’69” and “Everything I Do,” this concert promises an unforgettable night of rock classics and newer tracks.
Photo source: Live Riga
It’s a must-see for any music lover, so be sure to brush up on the lyrics for a full sing-along experience!
Guided Tours at the Latvian National Opera
Dates: July 10, 20, and 24
Explore the magnificent Latvian National Opera with guided tours available in English. These tours offer a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at one of Riga’s most prestigious cultural institutions.
Photo source: Facebook
On the tour, you’ll learn about the history of the opera house, its architectural details, and the rich traditions of opera and ballet in Latvia.
It’s an excellent opportunity for culture enthusiasts and those looking to explore Riga’s artistic heritage.
Riga Last Thursdays
Date: July 27
Explore Riga’s art scene with Riga Last Thursdays, a monthly event that transforms the city’s galleries into a cultural hotspot.
On July 27, art enthusiasts will be able to experience different exhibitions, open studios, and creative spaces throughout Riga.
Photo source: Riga Last Thursdays
Participating galleries extend their opening hours, offering visitors the opportunity to see contemporary art, meet artists, and enjoy special events such as talks, performances, and workshops.
Sports and outdoor leisure
There’s no better time than summer to enjoy outdoor activities in Riga. Are you ready to cheer on a world-class rally, play a round of disc golf, traditional golf, or solve puzzles in a city-wide game?
Tet Rally Latvia
Date: July 18–21
Rev your engines and get ready for the thrill of a lifetime as Latvia hosts its first-ever FIA World Rally Championship round – Tet Rally Latvia!
This rally brings together top drivers from around the world, competing on challenging courses that wind through the picturesque Latvian roads.
Spectators can enjoy the adrenaline rush of live racing, along with various side events and activities designed for families and car enthusiasts alike.
Plus, one of the key cities where you can witness the rally is Liepāja, and you can easily fly there in comfort with airBaltic via Rīga.
For extra convenience, special flights have been added for this event, allowing you to fly to Liepāja on July 18 or July 21, with the flight taking less than an hour.
airBaltic Disc golf park in Mežaparks
During your stay in Riga, visiting airBaltic’s very own disc golf park in Mežaparks is a must-have. Tucked away in beautiful, lush forests, it’s the perfect spot for both newcomers and seasoned players to come together for a round of disc golf.
By the way, the Riga Open championship is held in the same disc golf park this August. So if you’re visiting in July, you’ll still have some time to practice for this exciting competition.
P.S. If you become an airBaltic Club member, you’ll get to play for free once every month. Plus, if you’re an Executive or VIP member, or are a proud owner of our Planies NFT, you’re in luck – there’s no cap on free games at the airBaltic Disc golf park!
Golf near Riga
Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a pro, you’ll be able to put your skills to the test on some of Latvia’s picturesque golf courses. Conveniently, the top 3 courses – Ozo Golf Club, Viesturi Golf Course, and Jurmala Spa & Hotel – are all located just outside Riga.
Photo source: Ozo Golf
And after the round, don’t forget to stop by hole 19 for some light-hearted fun and a well-deserved refreshment.
Roadgames
Explore all the nooks and crannies of Riga city and beyond with Roadgames, an engaging scavenger hunt game that combines exploration with puzzle-solving. This unique game is perfect for those eager to see the city from a different angle.
Photo source: Roadgames
Plus, you can play anytime you like – there’s no set date. And, you can explore the city on foot, by bike, or by car.
Pro tip: if you wish to explore in comfort, you can conveniently rent a car through our partner SIXT and collect airBaltic Club points.
Riga—the place to be this July
Riga in July offers something for every traveller. Whether you’re enjoying a concert, diving into a festival, having a long breakfast, exploring art exhibitions, or experiencing the thrill of a rally, the city’s vibrant energy and cultural richness will make your soul sing.
Pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready for an unforgettable summer in Riga!
Photo source: Unsplash