Nocturnal Riga: A Unique Guide to Hidden Nightlife Gems

There are many ways you can describe me as a human being. I am a drag queen. I am a club kid. I am a writer. I am a mellow-minded listener. I am a thought-provoking speaker. 

I work as a drag queen in venues and nightclubs, experimenting with gender identity, music and my visual image. For me It’s not just entertainment — it’s a creative statement that challenges gender norms, promotes an inclusive society and shows the true essence of individuality. 

Nightlife has become an integral part of my identity and everyday life. Every single weekend I visit clubs, bars and raves, exploring the power of music, art, dance and social gatherings. Nightlife is therapy. It liberates our inner feelings and allows everyone to celebrate their authentic selves. 

There are many late-night joints and chill-out spots in Riga, but some of them are not as popular as others. But it doesn’t automatically mean that they are lame or provide an unpleasant nightlife experience — there is a prominent hidden nightlife scene going on as well. That’s why we decided to give you a glimpse of the diverse range of niche nocturnal gems in Latvia’s capital – Riga.

1983

/Dancing under experimental stars/

If you are on the hunt for an iconic and unconventional nightspot with a vibe that’ll draw you in, 1983 might be a good match for you. It can be found near Vagonu Hall – a quite popular cultural venue.

1983 is a place for those who love to experiment and are not afraid of something different. By providing a space for techno and experimental music, it has become a significant creative hub with many legendary events, like Klik Klak (my favourite one), Knab,ģirtsreiniksatskaņotrokšņuambientāsdronaeksperimentālāstehnounindustriālāsmūzikasierakstus (yes, this is a real name of the event) and many others.

It is also noteworthy that drink prices are more affordable in comparison with other popular trendy haunts.

More info: 1983

WALTERS & GRAPA

/Keep it artsy/

Walters & Grapa is not a typical bar – it’s where free spirits gather. The place is a mishmash of art, cozy furniture, and good company. The highlight here? It’s definitely the beer lineup. They offer a wide range of craft beers, both local and international, that will make your taste buds sing.

It is also a venue for live music shows, art performances, DJ gigs and other cultural occasions. Thus making it a perfect spot for romantic dates, warm talks with friends and memorable night outs! 

More info: Walters & Grapa

MUTE

/What happened in Mute — stays in Mute/

FUKUŠIMA

/Come in with a hush/

Underground. Obscure. Hush-hush. Concealed. Rustic. Beneath-the-grid. These are some words that usually come to mind while thinking of Fukušima. It is a noncommercial shared workspace that can be used as an art residence, sauna, wellness complex, bioremediation and party venue.

I’ll keep it straight with you — one of the best parties I experienced this summer was thrown here. It was a night that had everything you could ask for: tracks that had us dancing, a cozy crowd, and an electric atmosphere!

In general, you have to know particular organizers or communications channels to get into parties or raves at Fukušima, as privacy and restricted access are crucial elements of creating an exclusive nightlife environment. However, don’t be upset — there is also a possibility of catching events by following their Facebook page.

More info: Fukušima

ALEPONIJA

/Get lost in the chill vibes/

Looking for a chill, laid-back spot to spend your evening? Consider checking out Aleponija. This hangout den with reclaimed wooden walls is a heaven for introspective aesthetes, soulful creatives and indie night owls.

Aleponija provides not only a big choice of local craft beer but also a chance to enjoy poetry readings, live concerts and easygoing discussions. One of the unique elements that make the bar even more special is a cat who lives there and makes it feel like home. 

N.B. Aleponija operates as a cash-only bar, and there is no option to make payments using credit cards.

More info: Aleponija

ČĒ

/Intellectuals with keenly priced drinks in their hands/

ČĒ is a new name for a bar previously known as Chomsky. The bar is all about those city-cool vibes, showing off a stylish interior, and hosting eclectic music events. And they have, most importantly, cheerful bartenders who know how to have fun.

It is a popular drinking locale for intellectuals, artists and especially students thanks to pocket-friendly prices and a solid variety of alcoholic (and non-alcoholic) beverages. I’d highly recommend giving the Zilver cider a shot – trust me, it’s a taste you won’t want to miss. 

So long story short – at ČĒ everyone can find their own thing: whether it is comfy talks with strangers or listening to a live DJ set.

More info: Čē