Outrage over drink prices at Valmiera festival: more expensive than Venice

The surprising comparison

A visitor to the Valmiera city festival shared a photo of an Aperol Spritz in a plastic cup, noting it cost between €7.5 and €10. For comparison, the same cocktail in Venice was said to cost €3.5–6. The post ignited widespread discussion on social media.

Mixed reactions

Some called the prices "cosmic," while others argued that if people buy, vendors have no reason to lower them. Many noted that prices at festivals and fairs have been rising in recent years. One commenter wrote that "city festivals have become an absurd money grab."

Specific examples were cited: in Engure, a non-alcoholic drink cost €7; in Salacgrīva, beer was €7, cider €8, prosecco or Aperol €10, and whiskey with cola €12. In Līvāni, beer ranged €6–8, and screwdrivers €10–15. Food prices also drew criticism – a portion of fries and shashlik for €15, eaten while sitting on the curb.

European comparisons

International examples emerged. At Munich's Oktoberfest 2026, a liter of beer costs €14.80–15.90; at Hofer Volksfest, €11.90. In Italy's Curtarock festival, Aperol Spritz is €6, while at Germany's GARNIX Open Air, a liter of beer is €6.50. One commenter noted that food in Monaco's Christmas market seemed cheaper than at Rīga's Dome Square market.

Will prices change?

Many concluded that as long as people are willing to pay and queue, prices are unlikely to drop. Another joked, "We are a nation of eaters and drinkers, and vendors know it." Some admitted they buy nothing at such events, bringing their own drinks instead. The debate reveals that while prices at Latvian events seem excessive to many, purchasing habits suggest otherwise.