On 4 December, at the beginning of the Advent season, a Christmas tree decorating event took place in front of the Riga Congress House, where Riga Mayor ViestursKleinbergs and foreign ambassadors residing in Latvia took part and jointly created a festive greeting for the residents of the city.
"I am very happy that the tradition of decorating the Christmas tree in Riga is still alive and unites us all. Today, we continue this work together with foreign ambassadors in Latvia, affirming that, although Christmas customs vary from country to country, coming together and creating festivity is a universal language. It was in Riga that the first known Christmas tree was decorated, and this history gives our tradition a special meaning. May the lights of the Christmas tree bring warmth and a sense of togetherness throughout the city this year," said Viesturs Kleinbergs, Chairman of the Riga City Council.
"December is a special month filled with festive spirit, a time for the whole city to come together, celebrate traditions and build kindness among each other. It is a time of warmth, hope and joy, and that is what makes this month so meaningful and special. On behalf of the Diplomatic Corps, we are delighted and honoured to take part of the moment of celebration," said Slovenian Ambassador H.E. Tomaž Matjašec.
Christmas decorations were made especially for the event – peace doves with the flag of each country represented, symbolising international solidarity and a common wish for world peace. The ornaments were hung on the tree by both Riga City representatives and foreign diplomats, symbolically confirming Riga's close friendship and cooperation with international partners.
The festive atmosphere was complemented by a musical performance by the children's vocal group "Poppy", creating a warm and bright festive mood.
Information was prepared by Ineta Miglāne, Project Coordinator, External Communication Division of the Communications Department of the Riga City Council, e-mail: ineta.miglane@riga.lv.
