In the morning we go to Kalnciema Quarter, a bright and lively spot in Riga, on the left bank of the Daugava River, in the green and colorful area of Pardaugava. It regularly hosts events for families and children, art exhibitions, plays, open-air concerts, and educational events. Kalnciema Quarter is particularly famous for its weekly market – ever since 2008, on Saturdays, local farmers and artisans have been bringing their versatile produce to Kalnciema Quarter. The cluster of renovated wooden buildings contains a Wooden Architecture Center, wine shop and cafe, a restaurant, an art gallery and a design salon. We end the visit at nearby located Agenskalns market.
We continue by exploring Riga arts and crafts and contemporary fashion and design, visiting local craftsman stores in the Old Town and learn about amber and knitted fabric traditions.
The afternoon offers on optional guided visit to the Museum of Decorative Arts and Design (MDAD) has been open to the public since 6 July 1989. The museum has seven collections: textile art, ceramics, metal, leather, decorative wood and glaas art as well as a design collection. The permanent display introduces visitors to the work of Latvia’s leading artists in decorative art and design. It tells about the dominant styles and movements in the period from the end of the 19th century to the present day. The evening offers an optional a ballet or opera performance at the Latvian National Opera.