If you’re visiting Riga and looking for an exciting local experience, don’t miss out on Latvia’s favorite sport – ice hockey. Whether you’re a die-hard hockey fan or simply curious to try something new, Riga offers fantastic opportunities to watch live matches or even hit the ice yourself.
🏒 Ice Hockey – Latvia’s National Passion
Ice hockey is more than just a sport in Latvia – it’s a part of the national identity. The country has a long-standing tradition in the sport, and Riga, as the capital, is the heart of the hockey scene. During the hockey season (typically from September to April), the city buzzes with excitement as fans gather to support their local teams.
Source: Latvijas fani. Foto: Vladislavs Proškins
🏟️ Where to Watch Ice Hockey in Riga?
1. Xiaomi Arena (formerly Arena Riga)
Location: Skanstes iela 21
Capacity: ~10,000 spectators
Home Team: Dinamo Riga (Note: check current team status, as operations sometimes pause)
Events: Local and international matches, IIHF tournaments, and concerts
Xiaomi Arena (formerly Arena Riga) is the largest indoor venue in the Baltics and the main site for professional ice hockey games. It hosted the IIHF World Championship in 2006, 2021, and 2023. The energy during a game is electric – a must-see for sports lovers.
Source: By Knospins04 – Paša darbs, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=106059243
2. Volvo Sports Centre (Volvo Sporta Centrs)
Location: Jurmalas gatve 78D
A popular venue for amateur leagues, youth training, and open skating sessions. It’s more intimate than Arena Riga and offers a great chance to see how young Latvian talent is nurtured.
Source: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=122093927762087811&set=a.122093926574087811
3. Daugava Ice Hall (Daugavas Ledus Halle)
Location: Augšiela 1C
Great for recreational skating and hosting youth and junior-level games. It’s a more relaxed environment and often has family-friendly activities.
Source: https://www.sportahalle.lv/en/projects/daugava-ice-hall/
4. Kurbads Ledus Halle
Location: Lidlauka iela 37, Rumbula, Riga
Capacity: 1,000 spectators
Home Team: HK Kurbads
Features: Opened in 2017, this modern facility boasts excellent ice quality, cozy interiors, and comfortable locker rooms. It hosts various tournaments and training sessions for young athletes.
Source: https://kurbadshalle.lv/lv/galerija/saule-ielkojs-pa-logu-un-pki-viss-kuva-siltks#&gid=1&pid=5
5. Vidzemes Ledus Halle (Ogre Ice Hall)
Location: Mežezera iela 3, Ogre (approximately 35 km from Riga)
Capacity: 1,880 spectators
Home Teams: HK Ogre, Ogre Juniors
Features: This arena has a rich history, having hosted notable games like the 2008 Latvian League All-Stars Game. It’s a central hub for ice hockey in the region.
Source: https://www.visitogre.lv/en/active-recreation-city/415/ogre-ice-hall
⛸️ Want to Try Ice Skating?
Many of these venues offer public skating sessions where you can rent skates and glide across the ice like a local. It’s a fun winter activity, especially for families or couples looking to do something active during their stay.
📅 When to Catch a Game?
Hockey season runs from September to April, with regular games, playoffs, and sometimes international friendlies. Tickets are usually affordable and available online or at the venue. Check out arena.riga.lv or bilesuserviss.lv for schedules and tickets.
🏡 Stay at Garden Apartments.
Our apartments at www.rentalapartments.lv are located close to the centre, making it easy to reach Xiaomi Arena (formerly Arena Riga) and other ice hockey halls by public transport, taxi, or a short drive. After an evening cheering for a team or skating with friends, return to a cozy, stylish apartment to relax.
Whether you’re here for a game, a tournament, or simply to experience Riga like a local – ice hockey is a perfect way to immerse yourself in Latvian culture.
Book your stay with Garden Apartments Riga today and discover the thrill of ice hockey during your visit!
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