With the first autumn leaves, Riga takes on a completely different atmosphere. Autumn is the perfect time to step away from the rush of everyday life and enjoy the city at a more relaxed pace. Events in Riga also become particularly varied at this time of year, with international film festivals and contemporary art events complemented by national celebrations, traditional fairs and impressive light installations.
When planning a weekend in Riga, choose Konventa Sēta Hotel and stay right at the heart of the action. The hotel is located in the heart of Riga Old Town, just a few steps from St Peter’s Church, Dome Square and the Daugava riverfront, making it easy to reach the city’s main attractions and event venues on foot.
White Night 2026 contemporary culture forum
On 5 September, Riga will transform into a vast stage for art. Exhibitions, performances, installations and concerts will take place in parks, squares and unexpected urban spaces across the city. White Night is an opportunity to experience a different side of Riga in a single evening, immersed in music, movement and captivating displays of light.
Contemporary Crafts Festival
On 5 and 6 September, some of Latvia’s most talented craftspeople will gather at the Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum. Traditional craftsmanship will meet contemporary design, giving visitors the opportunity to purchase original ceramics, wooden items, textiles and leather goods directly from their makers.
Royal Corgi Walk
On 11 September, one of the cutest autumn events will take place just a short walk from Konventa Sēta Hotel – the Royal Corgi Walk. The event is dedicated to the memory of Queen Elizabeth II and her beloved breed of dog – corgis. As the evening comes, corgis and their pawrents will gather at Bastejkalns for a group photograph before setting off in procession past the Freedom Monument and the Esplanade towards Kronvalda Park, where the evening will conclude with a British-style tea picnic.
Riga Tweed Run
On 19 September, the Riga Tweed Run will return to the city streets, bringing together enthusiasts of cycling culture and vintage fashion. Dressed in elegant outfits inspired by different eras – from 19th-century sophistication to 1970s chic – participants will set off on a stylish and visually striking ride through the streets of Riga.
Baltic Pearl 2026 Film Festival
From 23 September to 4 October, the elegant historic Splendid Palace cinema will invite audiences to discover a carefully curated selection of outstanding international films as part of the Baltic Pearl 2026 festival. The programme will feature films that have already earned recognition at some of Europe’s most prestigious festivals and received critical acclaim. The cinema is within walking distance of Konventa Sēta Hotel in Riga Old Town.
Autumn Harvest Festival and Miķelis Day
On 26 September, Dome Square will host the traditional Miķelis Day Fair, featuring handcrafted goods, country delicacies and the flavours of the autumn harvest. For guests of Konventa Sēta Hotel, the location could hardly be more convenient, as the fair will take place just a few minutes’ walk from the hotel.
On 27 September, visitors can continue discovering Latvia’s autumn traditions at the Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum, where a traditional harvest festival will take place. Guests will be able to take part in old harvest rituals, learn more about folk traditions and enjoy a range of family-friendly activities.
From 15 to 25 October, Latvia’s largest film event, the Riga International Film Festival RIGA IFF, will return to the capital for its 13th edition. Across more than 100 screenings, the programme will present topical and internationally acclaimed films by Latvian and international directors, alongside premieres, competition screenings and a special programme for children.
Mārtiņdiena traditions at the Open-Air Museum
On 7 November, the Latvian Ethnographic Open-Air Museum will celebrate Mārtiņdiena, a traditional Latvian festival marking the end of the autumn farming season. Visitors can look forward to masked processions, traditional music and dancing, blacksmithing demonstrations and an autumn market.
The candle wall on Lāčplēsis Day
On 11 November, Riga will experience one of the most moving evenings of the year. In remembrance of Latvia’s freedom fighters, residents and visitors will gather along 11 November Embankment to light memorial candles by the wall of Riga Castle. From Konventa Sēta Hotel in Riga Old Town, the Daugava riverfront is just a few minutes’ walk away.
Proclamation Day of the Republic of Latvia
On 18 November, Riga will celebrate Latvia’s birthday – the day on which the independent Republic of Latvia was proclaimed in 1918. It is one of the country’s most important national holidays, bringing people together in celebration each year and strengthening a shared sense of belonging to Latvia. A festive atmosphere will fill the city with concerts and a wide range of celebratory events, while Riga Old Town will become one of the main focal points of the festivities.
Staro Rīga 2026 Light Festival
From 15 to 18 November, Riga’s streets, historic building façades and city squares will turn into open-air galleries of multimedia light art during the Staro Rīga 2026 festival. Guests staying at Konventa Sēta Hotel will find themselves in a perfect place to explore the illuminated installations, as many of the festival’s most impressive works are traditionally located throughout the streets of Riga Old Town.
TOP 100 Wines + Chefs Grand Wine Parade
On 21 November, food and wine enthusiasts will be able to sample some of the finest wines and champagnes from around the world at Hanzas perons, selected as part of the Wine of the Year 2026 competition. Guests will also be able to enjoy an exquisite chef-prepared dinner during the TOP 100 Wines + Chefs gastronomic event.
In autumn, Riga Old Town becomes quieter and has a special subtle charm. It is the perfect time for leisurely walks, museum visits, a warming drink in one of the city’s cosy cafés and a delicious dinner to round off the day. Plan an autumn weekend in Riga and choose Konventa Sēta Hotel in Riga Old Town where cultural events, the city’s main attractions and Riga’s distinctive autumn atmosphere are all just a few steps away.
