On 5 and 6 September 2026, from 9:00 to 17:00, the Ethnographic Open-Air Museum of Latvia will host the Contemporary Crafts Market 2026.
Visitors will have the opportunity to discover the latest trends in Latvian contemporary craftsmanship and purchase beautifully designed, high-quality handmade products created from natural materials, including home décor, jewellery, clothing, and a wide selection of food products from local artisan producers. Alongside the market, visitors can enjoy a diverse cultural programme, special performances, creative workshops for children, and live demonstrations of traditional craft skills throughout both days.
More than 350 craftspeople and artisan food producers from across Latvia have already registered to participate, making this the museum’s second-largest annual market after the renowned Latvian Folk Applied Arts and Crafts Fair, traditionally held on the first weekend of June.
Over the years, the Contemporary Crafts Market has become one of the museum's established traditions, celebrating the creativity and talent of Latvian artisans who build on traditional craftsmanship while developing contemporary designs and innovative solutions. The market brings together makers working with a wide variety of materials and techniques, combining traditional skills with modern technologies and contemporary design. Every item offered at the market must be handmade by the artisan, demonstrate high quality, and unite artistic creativity with excellent craftsmanship.
The market showcases contemporary handmade products that both reflect today's growing appreciation for unique, locally made objects and encourage visitors to choose sustainable, individual alternatives to mass-produced goods.
The food and catering section of the market highlights creative interpretations of traditional Latvian cuisine. Visitors can enjoy products made from locally grown fruits, berries and vegetables, while discovering innovative ways of preparing, preserving and presenting seasonal ingredients, combining traditional flavours with contemporary culinary ideas.