Before Ligo, Dome Square has once again turned into a center of festive trade. Rigan residents are buying wreaths, cheeses, bread, and crafts, although many admit that prices have noticeably increased this year.
A traditional Herbal Fair has opened in Dome Square in Riga, which annually gathers farmers, local producers, artisans, and wreath weavers from all over Latvia. For many residents of the capital, visiting the fair before Ligo has long become a tradition just like the festive bonfire or Jāņus herbs, reports TV3 News.
This year, there are particularly many visitors. The atmosphere of the celebration is enhanced by participants of the Baltic States' Song and Dance Festival "Gaudeamus," which is taking place in Riga these days and has gathered several thousand young people from Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia.
Shoppers admit that they rarely leave the fair without purchases, although the prices make them think. Some choose cheeses and smoked products, while others browse fish, wreaths, and handmade souvenirs.
One of the most sought-after products traditionally remains wreaths. According to sellers, a wreath made of wild or garden flowers costs about 15 euros today, while larger options made of garden flowers can cost around 30 euros. For comparison, a few years ago, the simplest wreaths could be bought for 7–10 euros.
Oak wreaths also find their buyers. Some sellers note that they have kept last year's prices, offering individual items for 15 euros.
Stalls with food are also busy. For example, a large festive loaf at the fair costs 20 euros, half costs 10 euros, and a quarter costs five euros. According to sellers, many buyers specifically come to familiar producers whom they visit year after year.
The Herbal Fair remains not only a place for trade but also a kind of beginning of the festive weekend. Here, one can not only purchase everything necessary for Ligo but also feel the atmosphere of the approaching solstice.
At the same time, events of the "Gaudeamus" festival are taking place in Dome Square and other locations in the city. Until Sunday, participants and guests can look forward to concerts, performances by dance groups, and brass bands, culminating in a parade and a large concert at Freedom Square.
Despite rising prices, the Herbal Fair continues to be one of the most popular pre-Ligo traditions in Riga.
