Traditions and customs in Riga

1. Song and Dance Festival

A UNESCO-recognised choral tradition, held every five years with tens of thousands taking part.

2. Black Balsam

A 45% herbal bitter made here since the 18th century, drunk neat or in coffee.

3. Amber

Baltic amber worked into jewellery, sold across the old town.

4. Ligo and Jani

Midsummer with oak wreaths, cheese and beer, and nobody works the next day.

• Best time: 23–24 June

5. Sauna culture

Pirts with birch whisks, in the countryside and at city bathhouses.