A Christmas Tree city

In 2010 Riga celebrates anniversary of the Christmas tree decoration tradition that started 500 years ago. Among the old buildings in lovely streets, there lives a tale about the event. Just in front of the Blackheads House on the Town Hall Square the plaque "The First New Year's Tree in Riga in 1510" is placed.

Although the Christmas tree tradition started in Germany, the first time ever a Christmas tree was decorated, was in Riga in 1510. Archival material describes how a group of revelling young German merchants from Blackhead's House in the centre of Riga, covered a fir tree with coloured paper flowers at Christmas time. Decorating the Christmas tree as an event itself has been bringing a joy to people's hearts all over the world and now 500 years later the Christmas miracle starts again in Riga.

Yet, people still flock to the place where it all started - for it is not only the tree at Christmas that makes the city magnificent. There are splendid buildings, rich history and modern cultural life, cosy hotels, friendly service and delicious cuisine. There is lot to do and see year around. Riga is one of northern Europe's most exciting cities with great possibilities. It is a perfect place for living and working, resting and celebrating. Riga is a city of inspiration to everyone - both for them who are delighted with ancient and who crave for new impressions.