Category: Uncategorized

2 July – Visitation
The Estonian name for this day is ‘Hay Mary’s Day’ which implies that it is related to hay in one way or another. In some areas of Estonia hay making would start, in other regions this day would mark the middle of hay making season, and somewhere else it was even believed that people had better take a break from haying on this day.
5 July – Jubilee: puppeteer and director Väino Luup 85
10 July – Seven Brothers’ Day
Here is the legend about Seven Brothers’ Day commonly told in Väike-Maarja region.
There once lived seven brothers, who practiced their ancient Estonian faith, but when Germans came to plant their faith, the brothers refused to convert to it and were burnt for three days; their mother Maret later shared their fate. They are believed to have uttered a curse, and weather wisdom says that if it rains on Seven Brothers’ Day, it will keep raining for seven more weeks, but if there is so much sunlight as a man needs to jump upon a horse’s back, there will be much more.
13 July – Maret’s Day
Numerous stories about this day have been around. It was believed that another name of this day meaning ‘the day of the woolly one’ could refer to the day of paying respect to the bear; folklore collectors of later periods developed the idea and told stories about a person called Maret, who was born covered with hair and became the ancestor of bears. However, folklore sources do not prove that version.
16 july – birth anniversary: 180 years since the birth of Nikolai von Glehn, the founder of Nõmme
20 July – Saint Elijah’s Day
This day is mostly celebrated in Setomaa. Working is strictly forbidden: if you do not worship Saint Elijah’s Day, lightning will strike you.
22 July – Saint Mary Magdalene’s Day
Similarly to other countries of Western Europe, this day is associated with the cult of Saint Mary Magdalene. The only folk saying about it stated that starting with this day people who had used up last year’s grain could get ‘emergency bread’ made of this year’s grain.
25 July – Saint James’ Day
Saint James’ Day is considered to be the turn of the summer and marks the beginning of late summer. This is when hay making is finished and the harvesting period starts. This day was also when girls started to gather to work together on Thursday and Sunday evenings, and the meetings took place until Annunciation in spring. They used to do handicraft and sing songs; sometimes young men and musicians would visit and then the evening became a dancing party.
26 July – Saint Anne’s Day
This holiday is mainly known in Setomaa. This is when people commemorated Saint Anne, protector of sheep, and went to ‘Anne’s Stone’ and the chapel to bring a sacrifice of sheep heads, legs and wool. The priest kept a part of the produce, and the other part was given to the poor.
29 July – Saint Olaf’s Day
Saint Olaf’s Day used to be mainly celebrated on the western coast and the nearby islands. Similarly to other holidays of this time of the year, Saint Olaf’s day symbolises the transition to consuming this year’s crop.
One of the most important traditions of Saint Olaf’s day was killing the sacrificial lamb: it was supposed to protect cattle from diseases and evil eye.

Folk calendar via Estonian Open Air Museum

whole month

“Heaps of happiness!?” – an exhibition about well-being, mental health, and balance

Discussions about what really matters in life are as old as humankind. The subject of happiness is full of mystery and raises many questions. What is happiness? How can you find it? Why are some people and nations happier than others? These issues interest psychologists, philosophers, politicians, and each and every one of us when we start to contemplate our lives. There are people who can be happy and content regardless of difficult times. Others cannot feel any joy in their lives and circumstances even when they have many positives.

In May, the Estonian Health Museum opens a new exhibition ‘Heaps of Happiness!? An exhibition on well-being, mental health, and balance’. The exhibition explores what makes people happy and highlights issues of mental health and coping. We share practical tips for concentrating on our positive inner strength and make conscious efforts towards a better life.

Where: Estonian Health Museum, Lai 30

When: May 18th 2021 – May 15th 2022

Tickets: 5 – 8 €

Whole month

Applied art exhibition  “Translucency”

Applied art in its many forms is taking over Kai Art Center this summer!

The extensive applied art exhibition “Translucency” includes 21 artists from the Nordic countries, the UK, the Netherlands, the US, Lithuania and Estonia.

The show, curated by the Danish art historian and glass artist Stine Bidstrup, focuses on the phenomenon of translucency – the mysterious and multifaceted area between transparency and opacity. Artworks exhibited at Kai are conceptual, playful and experimental. The artists look at themes like presence and absence, the private and the public, individuality and collectivity, time and temporality, politics and language, material decay and structural defects.

The exhibition features a variety of fields, techniques and materials: glass, textile, ceramics, garments, photography, sculpture, installation, jewellery, video, furniture, 3D printing, digital design etc. Alongside the international main exhibition, the 8th Tallinn Applied Art Triennial also has an exciting satellite programme, including over 20 satellite exhibitions, installations and other events taking place in various locations all over Tallinn.

When: May 29th – August 15th

Where: Kai Art Center, Peetri 12

Tickets: 5-8 €

Whole month

Exhibition “Modern Love (or Love in the Age of Cold Intimacies)

The exhibition Modern Love looks at love and human relations in the current age of the internet, social media and high capitalism – the first age of “cold intimacy”. The exhibition looks at how the digital world, technology giants and neoliberalism have changed love and social relations, while at the same time diluting the separation between the public and the private. The exhibition also looks at how the current issues of time and space have influenced the way we communicate with one another and how the virtual has become entwined with reality. These are still two quite distinct things, although the opposite is announced. Modern Love deals with human pathologies connected to the commodification of feelings and the negative expressions of love (e.g. love for money), and for comparison it also delves into meaningful and transformative forms of love, from the personal to the political. 

Where: Tallinn Art Hall, Vabaduse väljak 8

When: June 19th – September 5th

Tickets: 0-12 €

July 10th

Summer concert in Estonian Open Air Museum. Ott Lepland & Quartet.

Ott Lepland is one of the most beloved contemporary pop singers and songwriters in Estonia, having studied in Georg Ots Tallinn Music College and been a contestant in the immensely popular TV-show “Estonia is searching for a superstar”. By now, Ott Lepland has many successful albums and many hit songs. 

The concert starts at 7 p.m. in the swing grounds but the concert ticket doubles as a museum pass during the whole day.

Where: Estonian Open Air Museum, Vabaõhumuuseumi tee 12

When: July 10th at 7 p.m.

Ticket:17-19 €

Whole month

History Museum’s exhibition “From Cave to Cuddles. The Story of Dogs and Humans“ This exhibition talks about dogs, people and their long journey together. 

We all know expressions like a dog’s life, working like a dog, raining cats and dogs, all of which mean something difficult and unpleasant. This is not the case at all, the journey of dogs to the present has been long and volatile, but also exciting, adventurous and rich in smells! And there is no red in a dog’s life – because dogs can’t see it!

Where: Estonian History Museum’s Maarjamäe Castle, Pirita tee 56

When: February 17th 2021 – February 27th 2022

Tickets: 8 – 10 €

Whole month

Film Museum’s exhibiton “Ideal Landscapes 21/101/2021 Estonian Films”

“So, look yourself in the face. Do you see your own reflection on the snowy hillsides of the Dead Mountaineer’s Hotel? Or in the muddy bog of November? We have been written into and are held captive in these places, they reflect our desire to be someone and say something.”  (Tristan Priimägi, film critic)

Twenty-one films are not enough to cover the entire history of Estonian film. Even the 101 films mentioned in the book “101 Estonian Films” by film critic Tristan Priimägi are not enough.

Where: Estonian Film Museum, Pirita tee 56

When: May 6th – October 3rd

Tickets: 8 – 10 €

Whole month

Up All Night: Looking Closely at Rave Culture

A rave is an electronic dance music event. The impacts of rave culture have spread beyond the sphere of music and have reached visual culture in the form of different subcultural manifestations. The exhibition deals with this powerful phenomenon by displaying works from the Meccas of the heyday of rave, England and Belgium, and provides insight into rave culture today in the Berlin nightclub Berghain, as well as in many other locations.

Where: Kumu Art Museum, Weizenbergi 34 / Valge 1
When: March 26th – October 10th

Ticket: 7 – 10€

Whole month

Zuloaga: Soul of Spain

Ignacio Zuloaga (1870–1945) holds a special place in Spanish art. His works reflect the painful search for identity and the political and social breakthroughs of the beginning of the 20th century in Spain, while preserving and developing the traditions of the Spanish school of painting. Zuloaga, who came from a Basque artistic dynasty, studied art in the independent private academies of Paris, but he considered the old Spanish masters to be his main role models and their influence is apparent in many of his works. After long years spent in Paris, where he belonged to innovative artistic circles and was friends with Paul Gauguin, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Maurice Denis, August Rodin, Maxime Dethomas and many other figures of art, music and literature, and a successful international career (Zuloaga’s exhibitions took place in Paris, London, Venice, Dresden, Rome, New York, Mexico City, Buenos Aires, Moscow, St Petersburg etc.), he returned to Spain, dedicating himself to depicting the traditional way of life in his new home region of Castile.

Where: Mikkel museum, Weizenbergi 28

When: April 4th – September 5th

Tickets: 4 – 6 €

Whole month

Crazy about Dymphna

The St Dymphna altarpiece was painted around 1505 by Goossen Van der Weyden, a grandson of the renowned Rogier Van der Weyden. This brilliant example of the early Dutch painting tradition, with its peculiar pictorial programme, used to be part of the permanent exhibition of the Antwerp Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The seven painted panels of the altarpiece depict the tragic life and sufferings of the virgin martyr Dymphna. The work was commissioned for the Tongerlo (nowadays in Belgium) Abbey near the town of Geel. The Irish princess Dymphna died a martyr’s death in Geel and she has been revered in the region since the Middle Ages as a healer of mental afflictions.

Where: Niguliste museum, Niguliste 3

When: May 21st – October 31st

Ticket: 6-8 €

July 8th to July 11th

Medieval Days in Tallinn Old Town

The Medieval Days are one of the most important annual events of the Estonian Folk Art and Craft Union since the year 2000. The Medieval Days take place in Tallinn’s Old Town every year on the first full week of July from Thursday to Sunday (in 2014 due to song and dance festival one week later).

During the Medieval Days you are able to feel the atmosphere of the flourishing Hanseatic era. A large medieval market is set up in the Town Hall Square with merchants and workshops. Musicians and dancers from near and far take the stage. A medieval procession opens the event followed by various workshops, excursions and theatre performances. The children’s area is situated on the Niguliste hill where children are able to participate in workshops, knight tournaments and other exciting activities.

Where: Tallinn old town

When: July 8th – July 11th

July 11th

Naissaare Jazz: Maria Faust Jazz Catastrophe

12 years, 11 albums, 15 awards, a jillion performances, some celebrated successes, a few fantastic failures, infinite weirdness, and 144 periods later, Maria Faust revisits her expansive (and expensive) songbook, created between 2008 and 2020.

Charismatic and eccentric composer and saxophonist Maria Faust coined the term “menstrual jazz,” an unpredictable genre of music that ebbs and flows with her predictably unpredictable hormonal cycle. Each song and arrangement, each band and concert, each day and month and year bring with them new adventures and challenges.

Where: Naissaare, Omari küün

When: July 11th, 7:30 p.m.

Tickets: 40 €

July 15th

Concert “Summer heart”

Tuulikki Bartosik (accordion with melody bass)

Duo Telluur:

Heli Ernits (French horn / oboe)

Kirill Ogorodnikov (classical guitar)

Presenting three versatile Estonian musicians with instruments from different eras – the combination of accordion, French horn and guitar is quite special. Each of us has “ownworld” – the world as one perceives it. As our “ownworlds” meet the heart of all our worlds is born. There are many opportunities for new experiences, inspiration, collaboration, and broadening of cognition to be found. The concert program “Summer Heart” is a story of friendship, kinship, warmth, joy, longing, nature and human nature.

Concert series “Summer Classics in Kadriorg”

When: July 15th, 7 p.m.

Where: Kadriorg Palace, Weizenbergi 37

Tickets: 15 – 20 €

The calendar is created with the support of Tallinn city and Kodurahu programme.

1 August – Holy Maccabean Martyrs’ Day. For Setos, Holy Maccabean Martyrs’ Day was when they worshipped water. On this day water was blessed in the church during a prayer. Birth Anniversary: Estonian writer and Feminist Lilli Suburg 180

8 August – International Cat Day.

10 August – Saint Lawrence’s Day. It is one of the many holidays that mark the beginning of the harvesting period. Still there is one aspect that makes Saint Lawrence’s day unique: the beliefs related to fire. It was considered better to refrain from anything to do with lighting fire on this day in early August: heating the kiln or the stove in the summer kitchen and even lighting a candle was forbidden because it could bring on a fire. To avert danger, a sauna switch and a bucket of water were left on the stove for Saint Lawrence to take a bath. Jubilee: Estonian singer and actress Helgi Sallo 80

15 August – Assumption of Mary Day. This day marks the time for sowing rye. To be more precise, a folk belief states that rye sowing should be started three days before the Assumption. A break had to be made for the holiday itself; otherwise rye would be poor. Sowing was allowed for another three days after the Assumption of Mary Day. 

18 August – Florus’ and Laurus’ Day. It is primarily known in the areas where Russian settlers lived. There is little information about it. Mainly what folklore says is that it was horses’ holiday, and they could not be used for work.

19 August – Paschal Day. One of many Setos’ holidays. Its other name, ‘apple day’ explains its meaning better. Namely, eating apples and other fruit was allowed after Paschal Day.  To make sure there is good yield, people brought apples to the church to give away and for blessing. 

20. August  – Independence Restoration Day, 30 years since Estonia restored its independence in 1991. Jubilee: Estonian sculptor Mare Mikoff 80.

August 22 – Jubilee: painter Uno Roosvalt 80.

23 August  –  European Day of Remembrance For Victims of Stalinism and Nazism. The day when the Molotov-Ribbentrop pact was signed in 1939.

24 August – Saint Bartholomew’s Day. This day marks the beginning of autumn. It is the time when ground frosts start, swallows begin leaving for the south, and cows yield less milk. On the other hand, it is a good period to start gathering honey; nuts are ripening and lots of mushrooms grow. 

29 august – ‘Ivanoskorona’ in Seto (on the date of Saint John’s Beheading Feast)  In Estonia this holiday has only been celebrated in Setomaa. Folklore has retained very little about the rituals traditional for this day. We only know that men named Ivan had to buy a bottle of drink because it was their name-day. Cutting vegetables was forbidden too.

Folk calendar via Estonian Open Air Museum’s website.

Whole month

Exhibition “Modern Love (or Love in the Age of Cold Intimacies)

The exhibition Modern Love looks at love and human relations in the current age of the internet, social media and high capitalism – the first age of “cold intimacy”. The exhibition looks at how the digital world, technology giants and neoliberalism have changed love and social relations, while at the same time diluting the separation between the public and the private. The exhibition also looks at how the current issues of time and space have influenced the way we communicate with one another and how the virtual has become entwined with reality. These are still two quite distinct things, although the opposite is announced. Modern Love deals with human pathologies connected to the commodification of feelings and the negative expressions of love (e.g. love for money), and for comparison it also delves into meaningful and transformative forms of love, from the personal to the political. 

Where: Tallinn Art Hall, Vabaduse väljak 8

When: June 19th – September 5th

Tickets: 0-12 €

Whole month

“Heaps of happiness!?” – an exhibition about well-being, mental health, and balance

Discussions about what really matters in life are as old as humankind. The subject of happiness is full of mystery and raises many questions. What is happiness? How can you find it? Why are some people and nations happier than others? These issues interest psychologists, philosophers, politicians, and each and every one of us when we start to contemplate our lives. There are people who can be happy and content regardless of difficult times. Others cannot feel any joy in their lives and circumstances even when they have many positives.

In May, the Estonian Health Museum opens a new exhibition ‘Heaps of Happiness!? An exhibition on well-being, mental health, and balance’. The exhibition explores what makes people happy and highlights issues of mental health and coping. We share practical tips for concentrating on our positive inner strength and make conscious efforts towards a better life.

Where: Estonian Health Museum, Lai 30

When: May 18th 2021 – May 15th 2022

Tickets: 5 – 8 €

August 6th – August 14th

Birgitta festival

Throughout the years, Birgitta Festival has established itself a steady place in the landscape of music surrounded by the Baltic Sea. Open for all genres of stage music, the festival is in a continuous development while every year surprising its audience with new exciting projects. The unique mood at Pirita Convent and the festival programme full of music and performance arts complement each other perfectly well.

Programme this year

Where: The Pirita Convent, Merivälja tee 18

When: August 6th till August 14th

Tickets: 15-150 €

August 6th until October 10th

Exhibition “Wearing A Hundred Shirts”

Affordable, hygienic and convenient. Everyone wears T-shirts regardless of their cultural background, gender, ethnicity and income. Unisex T-shirts are often considered one of the most utilitarian pieces of clothing because they are very ambivalent compared to other everyday cultural objects – ordinary yet prominent, cheap yet costly, boring yet interesting, democratic yet dominant, sustainable yet destructive. This exhibition deals with the multifaceted set of problems in modern society manifested in this simple everyday garment.’

Where: Art Hall Gallery, Vabaduse väljak 6

When: August 6th until October 10th

Tickets: 4-12 €

Until August 15th

Applied art exhibition “Translucency”

Applied art in its many forms is taking over Kai Art Center this summer!

The extensive applied art exhibition “Translucency” includes 21 artists from the Nordic countries, the UK, the Netherlands, the US, Lithuania and Estonia.

The show, curated by the Danish art historian and glass artist Stine Bidstrup, focuses on the phenomenon of translucency – the mysterious and multifaceted area between transparency and opacity. Artworks exhibited at Kai are conceptual, playful and experimental. The artists look at themes like presence and absence, the private and the public, individuality and collectivity, time and temporality, politics and language, material decay and structural defects.

The exhibition features a variety of fields, techniques and materials: glass, textile, ceramics, garments, photography, sculpture, installation, jewellery, video, furniture, 3D printing, digital design etc. Alongside the international main exhibition, the 8th Tallinn Applied Art Triennial also has an exciting satellite programme, including over 20 satellite exhibitions, installations and other events taking place in various locations all over Tallinn.

When: May 29th – August 15th

Where: Kai Art Center, Peetri 12

Tickets: 5-8 €

August 12th – August 15th

Tallinn Old Town Days

Tallinn Old Town Days is a lively party of several days taking place in the unique medieval old town, celebrating the cultural heritage, history and vibrancy of this part of the capital of Estonia. First organized in 1982, it is a tradition during which several free concerts, shows, exhibitions, sports events etc will be available all over the old town.

Where: Tallinn old town

When: August 12th – August 15th

August 21st

Vanamõisa Open Air Handicraft Fair

Starting at 10 AM at Vanamõisa Open Air Centre in Saue, Harju County, Estonia.

THE BEST ESTONIAN HANDICRAFT AND CUISINE AVAILABLE!

In addition to more than 400 craftsmen offering a diverse range of products you can participate in exciting crafts workshops throughout the day.

At the spectacular Estonian Food Tent, about 100 of the best Estonian farm and organic producers will offer their products. Partake in this year’s fresh harvest, enjoy genuine farm food on the spot, or get enough goods to fill your pantry. Enjoy the Estonian Master Chef’s Culinary Workshops while you browse the food stands.

Take part in exciting activities and enjoy a varied entertainment program throughout the day. And also beloved Estonian performers will give a spectacular performance in the evening.

When: August 21st 10 a.m.

Where: Vanamõisa Open Air Centre, Vabaõhukeskuse tee 20, Vanamõisa

August 26th – 27th

Tallinn Food Truck Festival 2021

Tallinn Food Truck Festival 2021 – the most mouth-watering feeling festival of this summer, a real festival of food on wheels and a great mood, which will be held on the 26th and 27th of August on the Tallinn Song Festival Grounds. The entertainment involves concerts and DJs, huge tivoli park opened during the whole day (more than 20 rides for kids and adults) and a kid zone “Summer Fairytale Land”. Entrance 2 €.

Where: Tallinn Song Festival Grounds, Narva mnt 95

When: August 28th, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Ticket: 2 €

August 28th

Night of Ancient Bonfires

Let us light bonfires together along the coastline of the Baltic Sea. Come to the shore of the Baltic Sea which unites all of us. It is a link between our neighbours, fellow-countrymen and people from all around the Sea.

Now is the time to think about the significance of the Sea. The Sea must be well-kept and protected in order for own sake and for the sake of our descendants.

Let us come to the sea which our ancestors have kept so well.

When: the evening and night of August 28th.

Where: all over Estonia and other countries around the Baltic Sea.

Map of public bonfires and events with admission fee

The calendar was created with the support from Tallinn city and Kodurahu programme.

1 September – Knowledge Day

3 September – birth anniversary: children’s writer Jaan Rannap 90. Jubilee: architecture historian Mart Kalm 60

4 September – jubilee: singer, actress Anne Maasik 70

5 September – Saint Zechariah’s Day. Saint Zechariah’s Day is one of major fair days in Räpina and Seto regions. This is all the information we have about it nowadays. 

7 September – birth anniversary ceramicist, art historian Helene Kuma 100

8 September – Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. This day, called ‘Snake Mary’s Day’ in Estonian, was when snakes supposed to find places for winter sleep, which marks the autumn decline of the nature. In some places going to the forest on this day was forbidden because the nature needed rest. 

9 September – jubilee: writer and journalist Vladislav Koržets 70

10 September – 100 years since the first exhibition of Estonian Art Museum in Kadrioru Palace.

11 September – jubilees: artist Urmas Viik 60, conductor Mihkel Kütson 50.

12 September – Grandparents’ Day

13 September – jubilees: film director Rein Maran 90, actress Liina Orlova 80

14 September – ‘Vissenja’ (Seto language). This is yet one more of the many Seto holidays. Similarly to ‘Snake Mary’s Day’ it is supposed to mark the beginning of snakes’ winter dormancy. Bringing brushwood home from the woods was strictly forbidden because it could result in waking up snakes and attracting them to your yard. Instead of work people used to go to church and celebrate. 

15 September – International Day of Democracy

16 September – artist Loit Jõekalda 70, writer Kerttu Rakke 50

19 September – birth anniversary: musician Igor Maasik 60

21 September – Saint Matthias’ Day. Opposed to the one in February, the autumn Saint Matthias’ Day is relatively little known. As many other September holidays, it marks wild animals’ preparation for winter sleep: flies, mosquitos and snakes disappear. 

Resistance Fighting Day. 100 days since Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania were accepted to League of Nations

23 September – autumn equinox. People observed the nature very carefully on autumn equinox. This could help one guess what the weather would be. Wind direction was the most important: if it blew from the north, the autumn would be cold. Western wind promised a long and warm autumn. Wind direction was also believed to predict the spring draught of fish. Birth anniversary: composer and linguist Karl August Hermann 170

24 September – National Minorities’ Day

26 September – European Day of Languages. Jubilees: actor Väino Laes 70, journalist Marianne Mikko 60.

29 September – Michaelmas. Michaelmas was one of the major milestones of the year for Estonians in times past. It concluded the harvesting season. While farmhands came to farms on Saint George’s Day, their labour contracts ended on Michaelmas. To celebrate the day, lavish tables were laid, which absolutely had to include autumn produce, lamb dishes and beer. The largest fair of the year used to be held at Michaelmas too. Starting from this day, nobody slept in lofts and storehouses: everyone moved back to the dwelling.

Folk calendar via Estonian Open Air Museum 

Whole month

Exhibition “Kimono. The Essence of Japanese Beauty”

The exhibition introduces one of the most recognisable and beautiful symbols of Japan: the kimono. Traditional kimonos, accessories and photos offer intriguing insight into Japanese culture through everyday life, the change of seasons and festive events. The exhibition includes kimonos designed by Tokitomo Hisako, an artist who has researched the history of kimonos and traditional textile technologies.

When: June 11th – November 21st

Where: Adamson-Eric Museum, Lühike jalg 3

Tickets: 5-7 €

Whole month

Exhibition “What Makes Another World Possible?”

The exhibition serves as a companion to the book Making Another World Possible : 10 Creative Time Summits, 10 Global Issues, 100 Art Projects (Routledge, 2019) co-edited by Corina L. Apostol, a landmark publication that takes stock of socially engaged cultural practices dealing with the urgency of contemporary social movements.

Complete with a selected timeline of socially engaged art by the collective Chto Delat?, the exhibition offers a review of the current state of the field, diving into ten overlapping global issues. Topics addressed including surveillance, inequalities, social unrest, migration, environmental crises, racism, education, queerness, and new technologies. The exhibition showcases a critical range of inspiring artistic projects directly engaged with these issues from the regional context and internationally.

Where: Tallinn Art Hall, Vabaduse väljak 8

When: September 18th – December 5th

Tickets: 4-8 €

Whole month

Exhibition “Wearing A Hundred Shirts”

Affordable, hygienic and convenient. Everyone wears T-shirts regardless of their cultural background, gender, ethnicity and income. Unisex T-shirts are often considered one of the most utilitarian pieces of clothing because they are very ambivalent compared to other everyday cultural objects – ordinary yet prominent, cheap yet costly, boring yet interesting, democratic yet dominant, sustainable yet destructive. This exhibition deals with the multifaceted set of problems in modern society manifested in this simple everyday garment.’

Where: Art Hall Gallery, Vabaduse väljak 6

When: August 6th until October 10th

Tickets: 4-12 €

September 3rd and 4th

Tallinn Coffee Festival

Tallinn Coffee Festival is an event where both professionals and enthusiasts – local roasters, cafes, distributors and coffee lovers – can get together. Guests can explore many different types of coffee specialties, preparation methods and equipment. Good music, entertaining program, engaging competitions and a wonderful aroma wait for all the guests of the festival. In addition to coffee, the festival also features other hot drinks like tea and hot chocolate, street food places and cafes. More than 50 companies will take part of the festival.

The organizers and participants of TLNCF aim to develop the cafe culture in Estonia. Contributing to informed consumption, bringing consumer interest, surprising coffee lovers with new products – this is the mission of the coffee festival.

Where: Kultuurikatel, Põhja pst 27A

When: September 3rd 11 a.m. to September 4th 6 p.m.

Ticket: 5 €

September 10th – 12th

Tallinn Marathon

Tallinn Marathon is the biggest international running event it Estonia.

The Tallinn Marathon programmes involving thousands of runners and sports enthusiasts will include kids’ races, 5K, RIMI 10K, half-marathon (21.1 km) and classic marathon (42.2 km). Join Tallinn Marathon and run along one of the best preserved medieval cities in Europe, the UNESCO declared Old Town of Tallinn. A runner friendly weather with 14-17C in September and our fast-flat track are important aspects why international runners join the Tallinn Marathon. 

In our effort to adjust with the changing world, we will also continue with the virtual races.

Programme and fees

September 11th

Literary Street Festival 

For one day, almost all Estonian literary organisations gather on the idyllic Lydia Koidula street, named after a beloved Estonian poet. In addition to a rich cultural programme involving discussions, guided walks, concerts, and theatre performances, you can visit pop-up cafés, try street food, and enjoy the unique bohemian vibe of Kadriorg. 

Where: L. Koidula street, Kadriorg

When: September 11th

September 18th 2020 until February 1st 2021

Exhibition “Young Jüri Arrak. Storms and Forms”

The early works of Jüri Arrak are some of the most diverse pearls of the collections of Kalle Laasberg, Andres Eilart, Margus Punab, Sven Pertens and Reigo Kuivjõgi. The works from the 1960s and 1970s have been exhibited infrequently or not at all and are witnesses to the development of the artist’s style.

Curators: Tõnis Tatar, Aleksander Metsamärt.

Where: Mikkel Museum, Weizenbergi 28

When: September 18th 2020 until February 1st 2021

Tickets: 4-6 €

September 26th

Richard Marx “A Solo Acoustic Evening”

American superstar Richard Marx will perform in Estonia for the first time, giving on 26.09.2021 an acoustic solo concert at the Alexela Concert Hall. The concert will feature all of his hits, including ‘Right Here Waiting’, ‘Endless Summer Nights’, ‘Hazard’, ‘Don’t Mean Nothing’, ‘Angelia’, ‘Now and Forever’, and many more. During his career of more than thirty years, Richard Marx has had countless achievements as an artist, songwriter, and producer. The Chicago-based singer has sold more than 30 million albums worldwide so far. He has won numerous Grammys, his albums Repeat Offender (1989), Rush Street (1991), and Paid Vacation (1994) achieved platinum status, and to date, he is the only male artist in history to have his first seven singles make the TOP5 on the Billboard charts. As a producer and songwriter, he has also worked with artists such as Josh Groban, NSYNC, Luther Vandross, and Keith Urban.

Where: Alexela Concert Hall, Estonia pst 8

When: September 26th 7 p.m.

Tickets: 60 – 90 €

September 29th – October 1st

Tallinn FoodFair 2021

TFF is the No 1 food, retail and HoReCa industry event for food professionals in Estonia. Where new and traditional products and services are presented. You can meet producers, importers and suppliers that will meet your needs. Over 6 000 trade visitors are expected including hundreds from neighbouring countries. The aisles are filled with the “who’s who” of the industry. The food trade fair has 150 exhibitors.

Where: Tallinn Fair Centre, Pirita tee 28

When: September 29th – October 1st, 10 a.m. till 5 p.m.

Tickets: 9-18 €

September 30th

Ludovico Einaudi’s concert “Seven Days Walking Tour”

If one man embodies the kaleidoscopic new musical world of the ‘user-generated’ age it is Ludovico Einaudi. Topping audience polls from the classical to the avant-garde, Einaudi has not only become one of Europe’s most popular composers, but has rendered traditional ideas of musical genre and audience divide obsolete.

Where: Alexela Concert Hall, Estonia pst 8

When: September 30th, 7 p.m.

Tickets: 60-230 €

September 29th – October 3rd

Tallinn Music Week

The international festival and music industry conference Tallinn Music Week attracts an enthusiastic audience of music lovers from Estonia and neighbouring countries. 

The line-up presents industry players and Estonian and international acts from diverse musical genres from pop to jazz and hard rock to electronic music.

The TMW City Stage programme offers daily free pop-up concerts in unexpected and exciting places across Tallinn.

Where: different venues

When: September 29th – October 3rd

Programme and more information

The calendar was created with the support of Tallinn city and Kodurahu program.

1 October – International Music Day. Local government day. Birth anniversaries: writer Herman Sergo 110, poetess Debora Vaarandi 105, linguist Els Oksaar 95, choreographer Mait Agu 70.

4 October – World Animal Day

5 October – World Teachers’ Day

6 October – birth anniversary: writer and director Uno Leies 90

7 October – birth anniversary: poet and publicist Manivald Kesamaa 100

8 October – Estonian Association of Architects was founded 100 ago. Birth anniversary: poet and publicist Helmut Tarand 110

10 October – World Mental health Day. Birth anniversary: painter Alfred Kongo 115

14 October – ‘Yellowing Day’. There is not much to say about ‘Yellowing Day’. What folklore mainly states about it is that tree leaves would have turned yellow by then.

16 October – Tribal Day or The Day of Finno-Ugric Peoples. Jubilee: playwright Urmas Lennuk 50

17 October – jubilee: writer and literary scholar Rein Veidemann 75

24 October – jubilee: artist Jüri Arrak 85

25 October – jubilee: actress Epp Eespäev 60

26 October – Saint Demetrius’ Day. Saint Demetrius Day, the day for honouring the memory of ancestors, has been mainly celebrated in the east of Estonia. It is known that the best food was cooked and the table was laid to welcome the souls returning home. Another tradition involved going to the cemetery to have a meal there. First people would wait quietly and let the dead eat and then start eating themselves.

28 October – Saint Simon the Apostle’s Day. It is best described by the old saying “Simon builds bridges over marshes”. It was believed that when ice bridges had been made, Saint Martin would use them to come. 

29 October – Saint Anastasia’s Day. The holiday is widely honoured in Seto region with the tradition of asking relatives to come over. The celebration would often last for three days. There is no information about any food specific for the feast, but vodka, which would help the songs that guests would sing to thank the host flow freely, certainly had to be on the table.

Folk calendar via Estonian Open Air Museum

Whole month

Exhibition “Pine-fullness”

Estonians proudly go picking mushrooms and visit sacred groves, sacrificial stones and holy springs. How, then, is it possible that we are at the same time steadily destroying our beautiful nature for economic gain? As Aet Annist announced at a demonstration to protect forests in Hirvepark: “We currently act like invaders in our own country (…). We translate habitats into cubic metres, let the trees fall, one after another, and roll their trunks to sawmills and pellet factories.”

Where: Tallinn City Gallery, Harju 13

When: October 1st – November 28th

Tickets: Free admission

September 29th – October 3rd

Tallinn Music Week

The international festival and music industry conference Tallinn Music Week attracts an enthusiastic audience of music lovers from Estonia and neighbouring countries. 

The line-up presents industry players and Estonian and international acts from diverse musical genres from pop to jazz and hard rock to electronic music.

The TMW City Stage programme offers daily free pop-up concerts in unexpected and exciting places across Tallinn.

Where: different venues

When: September 29th – October 3rd

Programme and more information

October 2nd

Clawfinger’s concert

Zak Tell: “What’s up Clawheads, it’s not easy being a ”rockstar” these days, it’s not easy being a clawhead either. Unfortunately all our planned gigs have to be rescheduled due to the current situation. There’s no business, it’s show business but hang in there because the Clawfinger show ain’t over yet!”

Swedish Norwegian metal rap band Clawfinger gives an exclusive concert in Estonia.

Where: Club Rock Cafe, Keevise 6

When: October 2nd, 7 p.m.

Tickets: 35-39 €

October 3rd

Insomnium + Finntroll

Insomnium and Finntroll will come to Tallinn as part of their autumn tour.

The internationally known melodic death metal giant Insomnium will tour Finland in September-October. The tour stops in Helsinki, Turku, Seinäjoki, Oulu, Jyväskylä, Tampere and finally across the bay in Tallinn. The Finnish folk metal band Finntroll will warm up Insomnium at a concert on October 3 at the club Helitehas.

Insomnium, a Finnish band that broke into the international metal scene with their uncompromising attitude and hard work, released their latest single “The Reticent” on May 21st. The band’s latest album, “Heart Like a Grave”, released in October 2019, conquered the top of the Finnish album chart and also reached the Top 10 in Germany.

Where: Helitehas, Madara 22A

When: October 3rd, 7 p.m.

Tickets: 35-39 €

October 6th and 7th

Comedy Estonia & MZA present: Daniel Sloss: “HUBRIS”                                 

The all-new, 11th solo show by Scotland’s international comedy superstar, hot on the heels of his ground-breaking, global smash-hit ‘Daniel Sloss: X’, comes to Vene Kultuurikeskus in Tallinn.

‘Daniel Sloss: HUBRIS’ is Daniel’s fantastic new show. He performed it in New York and LA just before the world shut down and was the first stand-up to tour again during Covid-19 – first with drive-in shows in July and from September, selling out government approve socially distanced/Covid-secure theatres, comedy clubs and music venues all across the UK – even including two shows at the London Palladium! Now as we can look forward to the “new normal”, we’re super excited to present the show for you! 

BOOK EARLY!

Where: Vene Kultuurikeskus, Põhja pst 5

When: October 6th and 7th at 8 p.m.

Tickets: 33.40 €

From October 8th

Eleriin Ello. “Dust”

The series of a dozen paintings focuses on abstractly generalised forms seen from close proximity: rocks that are considered static from the perspective of a human life, and the timeless phenomena of darkness and light that do not allow themselves to be captured as mere visible images. They can be captured only when they become intracognitive. 

Where: Tallinn Art Hall, Vabaduse väljak 8

When: October 8th – November 28th

Ticket:  4-8 €

October 12th

The Magical Music of Harry Potter

Harry Potter film music will be performed by a symphony orchestra at Alexela Concert Hall.

In the evening of 12 October, the Alexela Concert Hall will transform into the magnificent world of Harry Potter where the wizards will be the London Philharmonic and Symphonic Film Orchestra and a choir and well-known soloists and the Weasley family actors. The most popular soundtracks of the Harry Potter film music allow you to experience the adventures of the Hogwarts School student and his friends, and the battle of Harry against his implacable enemy, the dark wizard Lord Voldemort.

Where: Alexela Concert Hall, Estonia pst 8

When: October 12th, 7 p.m.

Tickets: 39.90 – 69.90 €

October 13th

Kris Allen & David Cook

American Idol winners are coming to Tallinn!

David Cook and Kris Allen, are both winners of the American Idol competition and now they are coming to Tallinn along their European tour. David Cook won the 7th American Idol title while Kris Allen was the 8th season winner.

Kris Allen is an American singer and songwriter from the state of Arkansas. Kris, who dropped out of college, wanted to become a professional musician, having daily jobs as a sports shoe retailer and evenings performing in Little Rock and Fayetteville.

Born in the state of Texas, David Cook has been singing and performing since the school’s second grade. David completed his schooling at the University of Central Missouri where he graduated from the graphic design department.

In Estonia, David & Kris will perform acoustically at Von Krahl on 13th of October 2021. You can also buy meet & greet tickets in advance.

Where: Von Krahl bar, Rataskaevu 10

When: October 13th, 7 p.m.

Tickets: 27.90-113.70 €

October 15th, 16th, 22nd, 23rd, 29th, 30th

Cabaret evening Créme de la Créme 

Cabaret evening Créme de la Créme or the best bits of Starlight Cabaret of last 10 years is a look back at the success of the last ten years. It is a colourful selection of revue acts that have won the hearts of the audiences and shaped the face of our revue theatre.

In the first part we will pay a tribute to the classics of the cabaret stages – the famous Willkommen from the movie Cabaret, the timeless New York, New York, and of course everyone’s favourite the Can-Can!

In the second half, we will go all retro on the wave of the best examples of the Soviet Estrada. You will hear hits like Hoogsas rütmis, Olimpiada, Kruzhatsa diski, Oi aegu ammuseid, and Aeg ei peatu.

Where: Restaurant Merineitsi, Original Sokos Hotel Viru, Viru väljak 4

When: October 15h, 16th, 22nd, 23rd 29th, 30th at 7 p.m.

Tickets: 79.90 €

From October 22nd

Exhibition “Universe of the Farm Yard: Creators from Southern Estonia”

South Estonia has been the birthplace and creative nucleus of various artists, including Karl Pärsimägi, who was born on the Sika farm. South Estonia is the place where radical phenomena of Estonian art emerged at the beginning of the 20th century, and where artists have escaped to in search of an immediate experience of nature and spiritual transcendence. This exhibition marks the first time that south Estonia has been approached as a unique and rich cultural phenomenon in art.

Where: Kumu Art Museum, Weizenbergi 34/Valge 1

When: October 22nd 2021 – March 10th 2022

Tickets: 7-10 €

The calendar has been created with support from Tallinn city and Kodurahu program

1 November – All Saints’ Day

2 November – All Souls’ Day

4 November – Endla Theatre 100

5 November – jubilee: puppeteer and children’s writer Helle Laas 80

6 November – jubilee: writer Viivi Luik 75

7 November – birth anniversary: writer Aira Kaal 110

10 November – Martinmas Eve. Martinmas marks the souls’ visiting time and the end of outdoor farm works. This is when women started with indoor handicraft and men went to work in the forest. One of the most important traditions was going around as Martin’s beggars. Initially it was reserved for men, but women have been participating since the end of the 19th century. People used to disguise themselves as families of Martin’s beggars on Martinmas Eve and go from door to door singing, dancing, playing games and riddles, gathering treats and wishing luck. 

14 November – Fathers’ Day. Birth anniversary: actress Liina Reiman 130

16 November – Day of Declaration of Sovereignty

23 November – Birth anniversary: poetess Betti Alver 115

25 November – Saint Catherine’s Eve

Beggar impersonation is very important on Saint Catherine’s Day in addition to Martinmas. While Martin’s beggars are black, furry and ugly, Catherine’s beggars are white and beautiful. These were women and girls, usually going as Catherine the Mother and her children, who embellished themselves with veils, stockings, false plaits of hair and other pretty little things. Catherine’s beggars brought luck for cattle, especially sheep, which is why they checked how good girls in the families were at handicraft. They also played riddles, sang and danced just like Martin’s beggars did. If a Catherine’s beggar ‘peed’ in the corner of the room (i.e. sprinkled water there), this was also believed to bring good luck. 

26 November – Citizen’s Day

November 30 – Saint Andrew’s Day. Saint Andrew’s Day is another holiday for which impersonating beggars was traditional, but manly Andrew’s beggars were less common than similar Martin’s beggars. However, Saint Andrew’s Day was the first of winter holidays to involve fortune-telling. One could see one’s future spouse in a dream.

Folk calendar via Estonian Open Air Museum

November 6th

Black Food Festival Tallinn

How does black taste? The festival helps you to recall! Black Food Festival comes to Tallinn again. There are familiar tastes from the previous festival and definitely new black discoveries. There will be music and different things for children to do.

Where: Põhjala factory, Marati 5

When: November 6th, 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Free admission

November 11th – 14th

St. Martin’s Day Fair

Estonia’s best handicraft items are presented and sold at the fair, specialist workshops for handicraft lovers and crafts activities for children are organised. Demonstrations of handicraft products and presentations of new books take place. Visitors can eat Estonian traditional food and listen to various folk music groups. St. Martin’s Day Fair always takes place during the weekend closest to St. Martin’s Day (10 November) from Thursday to Sunday. 

Where: Saku suurhall, Paldiski mnt 104b

When: November 11th – 14th

November 12th – November 28th

Film Festival PÖFF 25

Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival is the only FIAPF recognised competitive non-specialised film festival in Northern Europe and since 2014 accredited to organise an international non-specialised feature film competition along with 14 other film festivals around the world. It has become a regional gateway for international cinema and film projects, bringing author cinema to local film fans and helping films start/continue their festival run and find distribution. Each year the festival is visited by a growing number of journalists, festival representatives, producers, distributors, sales agents and filmmakers – together with nearly 1200 accredited guests – and covered by the world’s leading film and trade magazines, having a potential global media auditorium over 9 billion people.

When: November 1th – November 28th

Where: Different venues

November 13th

Estonian premiere of a film score by Tõnu Kõrvits: “Vampyr”

“Vampyr” brings together music and cinema from the 20th and the 21st centuries in the Estonian premiere of the Estonian composer Tõnu Kõrvits’s score (completed in 2015) for the Danish director Carl Theodor Dreyer’s 1932 film.

The film “Vampyr or The Dream of Allan Grey” is an avant-garde classic, a nightmarish work of art filled with fireworks of visual effects that are still impressive.

Where: Kumu museum auditorium, Weizenbergi 34 / Valge 1

When: November 13th, 7 p.m.

Tickets: 15 – 30 €

November 14th

Enigma concert ”Original Enigma Voices”

One of the most unique artists in the world of music, Enigma, will return to Estonia to give a fascinating concert at Alexela Concert Hall again. The project, led by German Michael Cretu, has sold more than 70 million albums worldwide and has won more than 100 platinum nominations. A two-hour show is planned, during which Enigmat will be accompanied by a band and a string orchestra.

The “Original Enigma Voices” tour will feature songs such as “Sadeness”, “Return to Innocence”, “Gravity of Love” and many others performed by Enigma members, as well as artists Andru Donalds, Angel X and Fox Lima, familiar from Enigma’s stories. According to Andru Donalds, the concert will be a wonderful and memorable journey in a charming soundscape.

Where: Alexela concert hall, Estonia pst 9

When: November 14th, 7 p.m.

Tickets: 30-80 €

November 17th

English rock band Nothing But Thieves concert

Southend five-piece Nothing But Thieves will take the stage in Tallinn at Vaba Lava on 17th November 2021 as part of their Moral Panic Tour. 

English rock band Nothing But Thieves released their third album “Moral Panic” last October, together with a huge tour announcement in the UK, Ireland and Europe for Autumn 2021.

The past few years have been quite a ride for Nothing But Thieves’ members Conor Mason (vocals, guitars), Joe Langridge-Brown (guitars), Dominic Craik (guitars, keyboard), Philip Blake (bass guitar) and James Price (drums). Amassing over 700,000 album sales and 750 million streams so far, they have built up a loyal and wide following for their impactful alt-rock sound, cementing themselves as one of the best current rock bands in the world. Selling out their entire worldwide “Broken Machine” headline tour, their success has been global.

Where: Vaba Lava theatre centre, Telliskivi 60A

When: November 17th, 7 p.m.

Tickets: 39 €

November 19th

ERSO concert: José Cura

The programme of the concert has been compiled by the world-famous tenor José Cura – a conductor, a composer, and a singer who presents a selection of beautiful Argentinian songs as well as the pearls of Italian opera. Cura’s guitar concerto will be premiered in Estonia – a work composed during the coronary pandemic carrying the hope of ending the  that the stilllife of live performances will soon be over. José Cura was introduced to Estonian audience in 2011 at the gala concert of the Saaremaa Opera Days.

Where: Estonia concert hall, Estonia pst 4

When: November 19th, 7 p.m.

Tickets: 30-50 € 

November 20th

Sound & Cinema: Soundtrack Show

On November 20, first time in Estonia “Sound & Cinema: soundtrack show” at the “Alexela” Concert Hall. “Sound & Cinema” is a vivid multimedia show which contains the most popular soundtracks from the world known movies, cartoons, and video games.

You will absolutely fall in love with a masterly performance of both electronic and acoustic instruments including light show and video installations. And the main point is a live communication with the audience as well as a joint performance of several compositions. In sum, the show is required to view not only by moviegoers, music lovers, and gamers but also for fans of classical crossover so popular today.

Where: Alexela Concert Hall, Estonia pst 9

When: November 20th, 7 p.m.

Tickets: 20-70 €

November 26th

Dmitry Metlitsky Orchestra

Holiday concert! It is grand, amazing, beautiful! All hits from Vivaldi to Metallica, accompanied by a unique dance show (continuation). The music that won the hearts of millions of listeners around the world performed by the best musicians of Europe with the participation of the stars of the world show ballet. The concert program combines stunning music and a spectacular dance show staged by world famous choreographers. Amazing temperamental performance, exclusive dance numbers, unique production and stunning costumes will leave an unforgettable impression. Dmitry Metlitsky, a multi-instrumentalist composer, is called modern Mozart – beautiful melodies, stunning arrangements and performance penetrate the heart and win listeners from the first notes. It is impossible to describe these emotions in words – this must be heard!

Where: Alexela Concert Hall, Estonia pst 9

When: November 26th, 7 p.m.

Tickets: 26-46 €

The calendar has been created with the support of Tallinn city and Kodurahu program.

3 December – birth anniversary: violinist Endel Lippus 95

6 December – Saint Nicholas’ Day. While this day is associated with the Saint Nicholas i.e. Santa Claus who brings presents to children in the rest of the world, in Estonia it is relatively little known and mostly celebrated by the Orthodox. In the first place, Saint Nicholas’ Day stands for a change of weather: Nicholas builds bridges over rivers, which means that ice is thick and solid after this date. Finland’s Independence Day. Birth anniversary: director and actor Evald Hermaküla 80. Jubilee: actress Katariina Unt 50.

8 December – Feast of the Immaculate Conception. Birth anniversary: composer Hillar Kareva 90.

11 December – birth anniversary: poet Ilmar Laaban 100.

13 December – Saint Lucy’s Day. Saint Lucy’s Day is a great holiday in Sweden, and in Estonia it was celebrated by Rannarootsi Swedes of the coast. On this day, care had to be taken to prevent evil from damaging cattle: an iron object was stuck in the straw for the night so that animals would eat straw during the winter; it was said that otherwise Lucy would crawl into the straw. Another saying states that Lucy comes with a broom, which means that it will have snowed a lot by this day. According to the old calendar, the night after Saint Lucy’s Day was the longest in the year. 

14 December – Estonian Football Association 100

21 December – Saint Thomas’ Day. Saint Thomas’ Day marks the beginning of major preparations for the approaching Christmas season. The whole house had to be set in order and dust and trash had to be swept out of the rooms; otherwise the following year would be spent in sloth and dirt. To ward off laziness, a figure of ‘Dirty Thomas’ was made of old clothes and straw, which had to be taken away from one’s house and land (for example, to the neighbouring farm). But one needed to be careful not to let a similar ‘Dirty Thomas’ near one’s own door. By Saint Thomas’ Day the farm owner had to have Christmas beer ready because beer makes a lot of froth and plenty of it can be prepared. Beer was also to be offered to Thomas’ beggars who went around and announced the approaching holidays. Jubilee: writer Rein Raud 60.

22 December – jubilee: artist Tiit Pääsuke 80

24 December – Christmas Eve. The holiday season that lasts until Epiphany on January 6 starts with Christmas Eve. The saying “Christmas is the king of holidays” sums up what this holiday meant for Estonians. The Christmas season was the time for luxury, when pork, black pudding and sweet pastries could be eaten and candy brought from the town could be enjoyed instead of the everyday food that was rather on the poor side. It felt good to stay at home with the family, make noise and play in the fresh straw placed on the floor or admire the Christmas tree in enchanting candle light. Families went to church accompanied by festive jingle bells. The Christmas night was the night of miracles: souls of ancestors were expected to come back home and food was left for them; fortune was told for the following year and one could see the future spouse in a dream. Christmas time naturally meant singing carols together, giving presents and wishing Merry Christmas to one another. 

25 December – jubilee: actor and director Ain Mäeots 50.

26 December – Saint Stephen’s Day. Saint Stephen’s Day has been celebrated on the northern coast. This was the day to let horses run freely, wash and water them. Stephen’s beggars who looked quite similar to Christmas or Thomas’ beggar went around too; they would not come indoors, but would ask the household for beer. Jubilee: architect Peep Jänes 85.

28 December – the Holy Innocents’ Day. This holiday in Estonia mainly has a Christian background, commemorating the innocent male children executed by King Herod. 

31 December – New Year’s Eve. New Year’s Eve is the best time for fortune-telling. This is the time to ask spirits what the following year will bring: who will be courted, who will get ill or die, who will need to move house or go travelling. The most preferred way of fortune-telling is pewter casting. Eating on New Year’s Eve is the same as at Christmas; food is not taken off the table. If you went outside after midnight, the sounds you hear would help you foretell what the following year would bring: bell ringing stands for wedding bells; hearing a child cry means a baby will be born, and so on. A man disguised as a ‘New Year’s Eve goat’, whose horning brought good luck in the following year, could come over as well. New Year’s Eve is such a special night that sleeping is just not worth it.

Folk calendar via Estonian Open Air Museum 

December 1st

Elderbrook concert “Why Do We Shake In The Cold?”

Multitalented English producer and songwriter Elderbrook will take the stage at Fotografiska Tallinn on 1st of December 2021 as part of the ”Why Do We Shake in the Cold?” tour. 

A live phenomenon, classically-trained multi-instrumentalist, producer and singer/songwriter Elderbrook has a knack for creating emotive music that explores the sensitive and introspective themes of identity and mental health. 

Elderbrook isn’t one thing, or another thing. In the modern electronic world, he’s the type of multi-faceted, forward-thinking talent who is comfortable exploring a range of genres. Exploding onto the scene with the 2017 global smash ‘Cola’ with Camelphat – with current Spotify streams standing at a colossal 156 million – the track which earned him those Grammy and Ivor Novello nods, plus a No.1 on the US Dance Airplay Chart.

Where: Fotografiska, Telliskivi 60A-8

When: December 1st 7 p.m.

Tickets: 29-39 €

December 3rd, 4th, 5th

Tallinn Handicraft Fair

Tallinn Handicraft Fair brings you a large selection of local crafts, jewellery, home furnishings, and much more. You can take part in different workshops, enjoy folk entertainment, and sample various delicacies. 

Tallinn Handicraft Fair aims to popularise handicrafts, introduce the fantastic skills of local masters, and tell beautiful stories of design and art. 

Entry is free. 

Where: Tallinn Song Festival Grounds, Narva mnt 95

When: December 3rd – December 5th

December 9th

Michael. The Magic of Michael Jackson

There once lived a KING. The king loved to sing and for many many years his songs brouhgt warmth and kindness into people’s hearts. His great talant and creativity inspired millions of people around the world. MICHAEL JACKSON. THE KING OF POP MUSIC.  The music of Michael Jackson is not like any other music, he performed impossible dance moves and he was a singer who steped over all the boundaries of taste and style. Michael Jackson was not afraid to experiment and launched the so-called cross-over era in the music industry that organically combines many different styles, such as pop, rap, heavy rock, solo, blues etc. After 35 years, we are currently witnessing the peak of the cross-over era. Michael Jackson’s songs found their way to the ears of young and old people.

Tallinn citizens and guests of Tallinn have a unique possibility to remember all the best hits of Michael Jackson in performance of Ben Bowman – MICHAEL starring Ben straight from London West End, such as Thriller, Beat it, Billie Jean, Man in the Mirror and many others. MICHAEL starring Ben is the best tribute to Michael Jackson in Europe, which has won many awards and has been acclaimed by The Telegraph, BBC Radio and many others. 

Where: Alexela Concert Hall, Estonia pst 9

When: December 9th, 7 p.m.

Tickets: 35.30-75.30 €

From December 10th

Exhibition Overture to Sculpture

The most valuable parts of a museum are its collections. For the first time, this exhibition will present the collection of European and Russian sculptures of the Art Museum of Estonia as a whole. Copies of renowned ancient sculptures from Estonian manor houses, works by famous 19th-century masters and Soviet socialist realist sculptors form separate groups inside the exhibition, and through them it is possible to evaluate the technical mastery of each work and to understand its value by placing it into the context of the time of its creation. Many of the works are on display for the first time in the museum. The exhibition is also a preparation for the construction of the open storage for sculpture collection of the Kadriorg Art Museum, which will be opened to visitors in 2022. One of the rooms will contain a conservation workshop, where visitors can observe sculptures in poor condition being cleaned and restored by conservators.

Where: Kadriorg Art Museum, Weizenbergi 37

When: From December 10th to April 1st

Tickets: 6-8 €

December 11th

Vienna Philharmonic Strauss Orchestra

In early December 2021, for the first time in its history, the Vienna Philharmonic Strauss Orchestra will have a short tour in Estonia and give concerts in Pärnu, Jõhvi, Tartu and Tallinn.

The basis of the collective repertoire are the masterpieces of Haydn, Brahms, Mozart, representatives of the Strauss dynasty and other classics. The members of the orchestra are highly professional musicians from Vienna, as well as their colleagues from all over Europe.

Vienna Philharmonic Strauss Orchestra successfully tours Europe (in Germany, Romania, Poland, Austria, Hungary, Bulgaria). The collective’s activity is aimed at preserving and developing the musical culture of Vienna and its promotion at the European and international level.

Where: Alexela Concert Hall, Estonia pst 9

When: December 11th 7 p.m.

Tickets: 30-66 €

December 12th

Maggie Reilly’s concert

Next year’s most anticipated Women’s Day concert will take place on 12 December at the Alexela Concert Hall with the live performance of the Scottish singer Maggie Reilly famous for singing on Mike Oldfield’s immortal hits ‘Moonlight Shadow’ and ‘To France’.

Maggie Reilly’s career began in the early 1970s. She became a huge success when she started working with Mike Oldfield. The hits ‘Family Man’, ‘Moonlight Shadow’, ‘Foreign Affair’, and ‘To France’ written between 1980 and 1984 have always warmed the hearts of the audience. The album Echoes, which marked the start of her solo career in 1992, also featured hits like ‘Everytime We Touch’, ‘Tears in the Rain’, and ‘Wait’.

When: December 7th, 7 p.m.

Where: Alexela Concert Hall, Estonia pst 9

Tickets: 29.80-69.80 €

December 20th

Lord of the Sound Christmas Concert “Grand Christmas”

The new generation orchestra Lords of the Sound presents the Christmas program “Grand Christmas”. Unforgettable moments are created on New Year’s Eve by the orchestra LORDS OF THE SOUND, accompanied by the choir and the orchestra’s soloists. The orchestra gives a live sound to Christmas hits and sound clips from beloved Christmas and New Year films.

Where: Alexela Concert Hall Estonia pst 9

When: December 20th, 7 p.m.

Tickets: 29-89 €

December 22nd

Tarja’s concert “Christmas together 2021”

Tarja will visit Tallinn with a special Christmas programme in December. Tarja Turunen’s name is well known to any symphonic metal fan – for 9 years she was the original voice of band “Nightwish”, before embarking on a very successful solo career. The finnish soprano has prepared a very special program named “Christmas Together” and will perform at Alexela Concert Hall on December 22nd 2021. 

Accompanied just by a guitar, cello and keyboards, like a dove above all that will fly Tarja’s phenomenal voice! And whether it be Feliz Navidad, War Is Over or even Ave Maria – you have hardly ever heard such unusual versions of these classic Christmas songs.

Where: Alexela Concert Hall, Estonia pst 9

When: December 22nd, 7 p.m.

Tickets: 30-70 €

December 27th

Concert “Someone Like You. The Adele Songbook”

Adele’s biggest hits will return to Estonia for three concerts. The concert program “Someone Like You” will return to Estonia in December 2021 for three concerts. At a recent concert at Alexela Concert Hall, the audience had a breathtaking experience, during which Katie Markham performed all of Adele’s greatest hits with London musicians. “The X Factor” finalist Katie Merkham’s performance on stage is the most true homage to Adele that has ever been done.

Adele personally selected Katie Markham, the finalist for “The X Factor,” to appear on BBC’s “Adele Special.” At that time, Katie couldn’t even dream that she would be able to share the stage with her idol and sing together. Nor could he foresee that a concert program would grow out of all this, which would take her on tour for years to come.

Where: Alexela Concert Hall, Estonia pst 9

When: December 27th, 7 p.m.

Tickets: 29-69 €

December 30th

ABBA Chique – New Year’s gala concert “Happy New Year”

ABBA Chique – the tribute band of the world famous ABBA – will give four glamorous New Year’s concert in Estonia! In the concerts of ABBA Chique the show of the legendary band ABBA will come alive again with a lot of authentic clothes and music! The stage will fill up with glamour and sparkle with different fabolous costumes with extra attention to the details.

Abba Chique concerts are extremely popular and their energetic performances take the audience straight back to the 70s! In these concerts the most famous hits of ABBA will be performed, for example „Waterloo“, „Chiquitita“, „Dancing Queen“ and other favourite songs. Come and enjoy ABBA’s beloved songs and feel the real emotion of its music with ABBA Chique!

Where: Alexela Concert Hall, Estonia pst 9

When: December 30th, 7 p.m.

Tickets: 44-59 €

The calendar was created with support from Tallinn City and Kodurahu program

Would you like to visit different cultural events for free, read books, listen to new music and share your thoughts and emotions with others? Or would you like to take photos or shoot videos or, why not, interview some cultural figures?

In order to offer even more diverse content at the culture.ee blog, which was launched in autumn 2014, culture.ee is looking for new authors from all over Estonia and around the world. No matter where you live, what is your nationality, mother tongue, age, job or field of study – we welcome articles by everyone who has fresh ideas and a desire to express their thoughts on theatre performances, concerts, exhibitions, film screenings, literary works, etc. Anyone who wants to reflect culture through photos, comics, illustrations, videos, or other forms of expression suitable for a blog is also welcome.

If you are interested, let us know by sending us an e-mail at kultuur.info@estinst.ee.

Browse blog entries here: https://blogi.kultuur.info/en

NB! Culture.ee reserves the right not to publish the works of co-authors and to edit and/or translate the published texts.

Additional information:
Helina Koldek
helina.koldek@estinst.ee

Photo: Pixabay

The Estonian feminist information portal Feministeerium, which celebrated its second birthday in the beginning of the year, answered Andres Laiapea’s questions regarding feminism. We’re happy to share these thoughts  so close to the International Women’s Day
130 years ago, Lilli Suburg started to issue the first Estonian women’s magazine Linda in Viljandi, and 100 years ago, women were given the right to vote in Estonia. Do you feel like you’re continuing the work of these earlier generations in some way?
FM: Everyone who does anything to fight for women’s rights is continuing their work. Our wish is to offer feminists and people supporting feminism a platform to support and unite activists.
Feminism seems to have a negative connotation in the eyes of some Estonians. For example, Martin Helme, who was elected the Chauvinist of the Year by the readers of Feministeerium, regarded it a “very worthy title” and would have been extremely embarrassed to have elected the Feminist of the Year. What do you think this demonising of feminism stems from?
FM: Everything that questions the valid norms and distribution of power seems to be hit by demonising. It does mean the disintegration and redistribution of the current power. Naturally, some people are hit with an existential fear. As feminists have criticised the norm and phenomena related to the private sphere – for example, violence against women, women’s double burden at home, shaming of women’s sexuality, and treatment of women as a sort of reproduction unit of a nation, some men (and women) are worried that feminism seems to threaten the family.
SA PTK portal Objektiiv, which could in many ways be considered the antipode in regard to your world view, continuously organises campaigns to raise funds in order to employ activist editors to distribute propaganda. They have created full-time jobs that literally require them to provoke sharp oppositions in the society to raise even more funds from their donators. How is the economical side of Feministeerium managed?
FM: We have donators and we do a lot of volunteer work, but we also get funds from the state. We would like to simplify donating this year, but we have no plans for executing special campaigns. In our creative process, we do not, neither do we have to, think about the economical side.
In Sweden, there is a political party called Feminist Initiative, which got 5,5% of votes at the 2014 European parliamentary election and 1 seat in the European Parliament, and also made it quite close to exceeding the threshold at Swedish parliamentary elections. Lately, the Feminist Party was registered in Finland. Does Estonia need a separate feminist party as well?
FM: Parties that focus on one topic are positive as they usually motivate other parties to deal with these subjects in their platforms. Perhaps, to enliven things up a bit, we really need a feminist party.
Historically, social democrats have emphasised the fight for women’s rights in Estonia the most, but if you look at the political background of the women who have risen to the highest positions, it tends to be more conservative (former chairwoman of the Parliament, Riigikogu, Ene Ergma, now president Kersti Kaljulaid). The same can be seen in several other countries in Europe like in Germany and the United Kingdom. Feministeerium generally represents the liberal direction.
What do you think of female leaders of state like Angela Merkel, Theresa May, and our new president Kersti Kaljulaid, who, for example, do not support establishing gender quotas, etc., which many relate to feminism?
FM: Feminsteerium is actually looking forward to good texts from conservative feminists, as not many have come around. Our objective is not to offer one narrow point of view, the “one right feminism”, but to publish different feminist viewpoints. In addition to liberal and conservative axis, queer feminism, eco feminism, radical feminism, and others have offered exciting approaches. We have also published criticism of feminism from feminist position.
Feminist solutions to real problems are varied and not all feminists support gender quotas. Both Merkel and May are a little contradictory figures, especially May. During her career, she has done both good and bad for women while voting as a politician or executing as a minister of government. On the good side, as a minister, for example, she has made forced marriages illegal. Kersti Kaljulaid does not have a traditional political background and does not fit into this equation. But what unites them all is that they show young women that all is possible. And this should not be underrated.
What should one think of a female politician, who does not support women’s rights?
FM: They can, of course, do a lot of harm. It’s best to elect a pro-feminist man than an anti-feminist woman to the parliament. These women of IRL, who have actively worked against the partnership law, have done a lot of harm to women, for example, as the couples who raise children and really need to register their partnership and protect their children legally, are mostly female. Of course, they do it anyway, as the law is valid, but the lack of implementing acts has created a lot of confusion and pointless bureaucracy.

People always like to talk about the weather, whether to make their plans according to it or recall events – especially if the weather happens to be extreme. That is how I am reminded of last week with its piercing wind, which noticeably quickened my usual pace. The good thing was, two events started, the Artishok biennial and Tallinn Comedy Festival, which offered and still offer (as the biennial still lasts) an opportunity to think and laugh at oneself and life in a cosily warm room. What is this dark time for, if not for inner contemplation. Culture.ee will hopefully post something in its blog about the biennial, but in the following paragraphs I will reflect on the impressions by Fopaa that took place at Tallinn Comedy Festival and the stand-up comedy by famous British comedian Steven K. Amos. All the rankings and charts friends beware that I will not rank the comedians, let this habit remain in the past.

Having listened to Fopaa before and Fopaa having advertised that they would perform some familiar jokes their friends would know from before, I felt like going into a comfort zone. In my imagination, I thought I knew what to expect and what Fopaa’s main figures Kaarel Nõmmik, Mattias Naan, Märt Koik, Tigran Gevorkjan and Kadri-Maria Mitt would generate. I was more or less right, but there were surprises. For example, it was pleasant that Märt Koik never stopped making fun of Helme family’s political party EKRE, that Tigran Gevorkjan revealed his family’s connection to the hot TV show of the 90s, „Travelling with You“, and that Kaarel Nõmmik’s business idea or vision about delivering kabanoss, a special Estonian wiener, to hospitals, has now been published. And, of course, Mattias Naan delivered at his renowned high quality. He only needs to appear on stage for me to start to want to giggle. In general, performances by Kadri-Maria Mitt have seemed likeable to me as well, but this time around I don’t know if it was the audience’s apathetic state or what affected her, but it came across as rather bland. In the spring, at Fopaa’s “best of” in Von Krahl theatre, the audience breathed in tune with her a lot more and she seemed much more convincing. Her jokes are not bad at all – they’re good, some even intelligent. Of course, intelligent is not the most correct word to describe some of Mitt’s pronouncements. Those, who know, what I mean, know.

For me, the new types in the Fopaa lineup were Lenno Kuurmaa and Märt Niidasoo. Lenno Kuurmaa, which is unfortunately only the pseudonym of the artist, came, similarly to Nõmmik, out with the business idea of producing holokaustiks (holo-notebooks) and told horror stories about an epidemic, which has hit Estonia, of gluten intolerance. We can speculate endlessly, whether gluten intolerance is only another trend or not, but the fact is that in order to avoid inexplicable stomach aches it seems best to just run from gluten as fast as possible. Those who know, know. Märt Niidasoo, on the other hand, described sad events that he has seen and heard a resident of the beating capital Pärnu. Having lived in a depressive Estonian village, these stories seemed familiar, I could just picture village discos that always ended in a fight. And well, as usual, no one knew why they even started. In conclusion, Fopaa was an ideal opportunity to escape for the wind and, as I often hear appeals for more physical activity, I moved my laughing muscles a lot that evening.

Frankly, I knew nothing about Steven K. Amos before. In fear of prejudices, I did not watch or google anything. In a way, I was a tabula rasa in this weird old ladies’ building called Salme cultural centre, to use Amos’s words. But seeing the number of people crowding into the hall of Salme cultural centre, his name was not unknown to people. Amos had divided the evening programme into two parts, the first to get to know the local audience and the second for more general and newer show elements. The apathy and numbness of Estonians was, of course, something that Amos could poke fun at. A grumpy face and crossed arms could be seen in the audience and reflected by Amos on stage. But as time passed, the faces became less grumpy, as Amos made us laugh about our own aloofness, racism and internet comments. The range of topics was even wider, but who knows, knows. In general, the level of engagement had grown a lot by the end of the evening and I believe such an applause had not been heard in Salme cultural centre in a while. I believe that also Steven K. Amos got the best experience from his visit here that an apathetic kabanoss-loving audience could offer – shivers from an applause.

On the evening of August’s last Saturday,  all the Estonian people and their guests are invited to the sea to light a fire on the beach and see other fires reply to form a chain of bonfires around the Baltic Sea and connect us to our neighbours. The aim of the evening is to light as many fires on the shores of Baltic Sea that two or more fires would be visible in every seaside settlement.
Regatta of wooden boats near Prangli Island
Prangli Island
Wooden boat enthusiasts’ gathering near Wrangö Island, i.e. regatta of wooden boats near Prangli Island. Evening end-of-summer party and the Night of Ancient Bonfires! Band and disco in the Harbour Shed. If you haven’t got your own yacht you may find additional information about visiting the island from here.
Night of Ancient Lights in Seaplane Harbour
Seaplane Harbour
Concert by beloved singer Mari Jürjens will take place and folk dancers will perform. At sunset, a bonfire is lit on the shore according to the ancient tradition, guiding the sailors home from the distant seas. The whole programme takes place at the outdoor area of the Seaplane Harbour and is free of charge!
Night of Ancient Lights at Lobotka village square
Lobotka village square
Concert and dance party. The Estonian-Welsh folk music duo Sild & Karl Laanekask and the ensemble Lustipill will perform.
The night of ancient bonfires at the patarei beach
Patarei prison
On Saturday, 27 August Patarei prison and the beach there will spend the evening and night celebrating the Night of Ancient Bonfires at the Patarei Beach. There’s a music program and for the hungry ones a foodtruck will be present. The huge bonfire will be lit exactly at 8:30 pm like elsewhere on other beaches and coastal stretches.
The sea, music and ancient lights
Toila beach
The largest end of the summer event in Virumaa “The sea, music and ancient lights” will take place for the seventh time this year. The event in Toila beach is for the whole family with activities on land and sea. There is a fire sculpture team competition and all the sculptures will be lighted at 9.30 pm.
There are also plenty of other bonfires and events going on all across the sealine and and also by the lakes. You may have a look at all the different events from here.

If you have not yet made plans for the New Year’s Eve, we can help – the culture.ee team has put together a selection of celebrations. There is glamour and grandeur, merriment and joy.   

Estonia Ball
Estonian National Opera (Estonia Blvd. 4, Tallinn)
The classical ball in the Estonian National Opera invites the guests to dance to the tunes of Strauss, the king of waltz, enjoy the witty gala performance and the festive atmosphere of the New Year’s Eve. The party is spiced up by DJ Katrin Pärna and the ensemble Swingers.

New Years Eve Gala 2016 in Tallinn TV Tower
Tallinn TV Tower (Kloostrimetsa Rd. 58a, Tallinn)
This year there is an opportunity to welcome the New Year 75 metres from the ground! The Tallinn TV tower offers a plentiful 6-course gala dinner and concert performance with an exceptional view to the capital’s fireworks marathon.

New Year’s Eve @Wabadus
Café and restaurant Wabadus (Vabaduse Sq. 10, Tallinn)
A cool party, where the guests are promised disco (Kaarel Nõmmik and Mattias Naan), stand up comedy (Fopaa), mood spoiler, bingo, quiz, lottery and an abundant dinner.

New Year’s Eve in the Club of Different Rooms
Erinevate Tubade Klubi (Telliskivi 60a, Tallinn)
The New Year’s Eve in Erinevate Tubade Klubi (the Club of Different Rooms) will be spent enjoying a special entertainment programme, watching the fireworks from the club’s panoramic windows and listening to the hip hop group Gorõ Lana. They promise to provide a cheerful sending off of the year!

The New Year’s Eve party Viva Vabank
Club Vabank (Harju 13, Tallinn)
The glamorous New Year’s Eve party at Club Vabank sees the new year’s wishes fly into the sky with corks of champagne bottles, Nele-Liis Vaiksoo will be on stage with a performance inspired by The Great Gatsby, and the party will last until the early hours in all three halls.

Grand New Year’s Celebration in Sakala Centre
Sakala Centre (Tallinna Str. 5, Viljandi)
On the stage are Robin Juhkental & The Big Bangers and Fat Fret. Starting from 11 p.m. DJs Daysleeper and Smaddy will play Latin rhythms in the disco hall. The dinner will be served by restaurant-café Harmoonia.

New Year’s Eve Ball at Vanemuine
Theatre Vanemuine (Grand Building, Vanemuise 6, Tartu and
Small Building, Vanemuise 45a, Tartu)
The theatre Vanemuine organises the grandest send-off of the year in Tartu on December 30 in Vanemuise theatre and concert hall simultaneously. The audience will have a chance to enjoy the performances of both Vanemuise’s as well as guest artists and dance to the merry melodies of waltzes. Among others, Nele-Liis Vaiksoo, Gerly Padar and Vaiko Eplik will be on stage.

No Jerks New Year’s Eve in bar Naiiv
Culture Bar Naiiv (Vallikraavi 6, Tartu)
The main motive of the event is to spend the New Year’s Eve with good music and cool and friendly people. In order to gain access to the event, guests need to have the password in addition to the ticket. The password will be announced directly before the event (look here). The music will be played by friends of Naiiv.

New Year’s Celebration in Ammende Villa
Ammende Villa (Mere Blvd. 7, Pärnu)
Villa Ammende welcomes you to enjoy an elegant New Year’s Eve. The restaurant offers wintry taste sensations and a live band will play for dancing.

New Year’s Eve party “The Wall is on Our Way”
Pärnu Yacht Club (Lossi 6, Pärnu)
Pärnu Yacht Club holds an 80s retro party. For one evening, the Yacht Club will turn into an 80s cinema and disco hall, where the lead role is played by Juss Haasma. For the best experience, it is advisable to dress as a character from the 80s film classics.

New Year’s Eve party at Põltsamaa Cultural Centre
Põltsamaa Cultural Centre (Kuperjanovi 1, Põltsamaa)
Põltsamaa welcomes you to celebrate the New Year’s Eve in the local cultural centre with the band Vanaviisi and the show dance group of the dance school Shate.

New Year´s Party in Põlva
Põlva Culture and Hobby Centre (Kesk Str. 15, Põlva)
The New Year´s Party in Põlva will be celebrated already on the 30th of December. Performances will be held by ensemble Hellad Velled, the mood will be set by Estonian singer Rolf Roosalu, Sissy & dance group Grandis. The event is hosted by Henrik Normann. Great fireworks at midnight!

As it’s the beginning of December and Christmas is coming soon, we have decided to put together information on different Christmas fairs and gift markets taking place in Estonia – so that we can offer an enjoyable alternative to big department stores for gift-hunters. There are many events: some in the beginning of the month, some immediately before the holidays. One can look for the market that takes place the closest or discover a new cool corner of Estonia while looking for gifts. Here are the favourites of culture.ee team!

Christmas Fair in Anija Manor
Anija Manor (Anija village, Harjumaa), December 5
On Saturday, December 5 Anija Manor will become an incredibly sweet Christmas pantry, where many beautiful, lovingly made gifts from great Estonian craftsmen and delicious organic foods for the Christmas table are available in the mysterious rooms over the manor’s two floors.

Habaja Christmas Market
Habaja Village Centre (Habaja borough, Harjumaa), December 5
Situated less than 60 km from Tallinn, the borough of Habaja will hold a Christmas market selling gifts and Christmas decorations. Come and buy ceramics, fancy handicrafts, organic foods and everything that is made by Estonian craftsmen and farmers with love and care. A Christmas café is open, children are welcome to make paper-snowflakes, and horse-rides are offered outside!

Paide Christmas Crown 2015
Various venues in Paide (Paide, Järva county), December 6
“Christmas Crown” is a Christmas event for the whole family to experience the real Christmas spirit. In addition to the Christmas market there are concerts, exhibitions, gingerbread competition, performances by elves and a lot else. But of course there will be time and choice to buy something for Santa’s bag.

Drama Theatre´s Christmas Pantry
Estonian Drama Theatre (Pärnu st 5, Tallinn)
The cozy atmosphere of the Estonian Drama Theatre is welcoming everyone to participate in the Christmas Pantry. There, one can participate in the charity lottery or enjoy something delicious in the cafeteria and of course find beautiful presents for friends and loved-ones. Traditionally, actors from the Drama Theatre, but also from other Estonian theatres offer their own handicrafts.

“Kellawärk”, Christmas Market of Tartu Centre for Creative Industries
St Anthony’s Courtyard (Lutsu 3, Tartu), December 11
Tartu Centre for Creative Industries (Kalevi 17, Tartu), December 12
Tartu Department Store (Riia 1, Tartu), December 16-23
The fifth Christmas market “Kellawärk” (“Clockwork”) of the Centre for Creative Industries is bigger than ever before. It takes place in three different locations and lasts for a long time. The Christmas market offers gift choices for every member of the family as more than 20 Estonian designers are present at the market.

Coastal Folk’s Christmas Fair
Museum of Coastal Folk (Viimsi, Harjumaa), December 12
On the second Saturday of December, the best masters and craftsmen will gather in Viimsi. Excellent choice of goods is offered in the cosy and homely museum atmosphere. Gifts and Christmas decorations will be traded at the fair. The museum’s gift shop is open and the gifts can be wrapped in the gift-wrapping workshop.

Great Christmas Market
Vastseliina Episcopal Castle (Vana-Vastseliina village, Võrumaa), December 12
The Episcopal Castle holds a family day on December 12, which also hosts a Christmas market. In addition to some major trading there is live accordion music, knight trials for kids, merry games of skill, and predictions for the new year.

Winter Fair in Northern Yard 
Narva Museum’s Northern Yard (Narva, Ida-Virumaa), December 15
Narva Vocational Training Centre and Narva Museum organize a winter fair, which offers lots of different surprises. Merchants and craftsmen from Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania will be trading their goods at the winter fair. Guests can take part in different masterclasses and workshops, where things are made using old technologies. Gifts for every taste can be found.

Mondo Christmas Bazaar
Telliskivi Creative City (Telliskivi Str 60a, Tallinn), December 19
On the pre-Christmas Saturday, NPO Mondo will hold a Christmas bazaar in their office. Fair handicrafts (embroidered bags, pillow cases, oven gloves) from Mondo communities in Uganda, Ghana, Kenya and Afghanistan as well as fair-trade chocolate, coffee, and cocoa are on sale. Every purchase provides work and better living conditions for women and youngsters in these countries.

Kassari Christmas Fair
Kassari Resort Centre (Kassari village, Hiiumaa), December 19
For those who want to get away from the city early before the holidays, we recommend Kassari Christmas fair in Hiiumaa. There you can find something that has grown on the island, been made with soul, prepared with care and comes from the heart. You will get Christmas food for your table, gifts for Santa’s bag and beer moustache under your nose!

Christmas Fair of the Estonian Academy of Arts
Estonian Knighthood House (Kiriku Square 1, Tallinn), December 19
Estonian Academy of Arts also holds a traditional Christmas fair. The students of the academy offer their work including jewellery, textiles, bags, other commodities, and, without doubt, pure art. Why not support young artists instead of big corporations.

Design market “Home for Christmas”
Tallinn Creative Hub (Põhja Blvd 27a, Tallinn), December 20
The design market “Home for Christmas” is a solution to those who leave the Christmas shopping to the last minute. You will find the best Estonian design and gifts for really everyone. In addition to Estonian designers, Latvians and Lithuanians are present. Children’s clothing, accessories, bags, ceramics, home furnishings, illustrations, eco-cosmetics and a lot else is available.

Every October, the Finno-Ugric days take place in Estonia and other countries with which Estonians share their roots, with the purpose of acquainting people with their origins and traditions, as well as celebrating their culture and identity. Among the several events that took place within the Finno-Ugrian days, the Etnodisko is worth highlighting. It took place on 13 October at the Must Puudel cafe in Tallinn’s Old Town and it gave the participants the opportunity to experience Finno-Ugric folk music, dances, games and even some food.

The event started with some traditional games, which were the best way to get things going since there were a lot of kids, but even adults joined in at the insistence of the organisers and they all kept playing and dancing until the next activity that had been planned began. During that first part of the evening, music from contemporary Finno-Ugric artists was played, as well as some of their videos. Listening to traditional music in a more modern way was a pleasant surprise and an enjoyable experience, there were even some folk-rap songs!

Then it was the turn of Ksenya Bagaeva, a well known folk singer, to perform for the participants, who kept the circle they had formed for the games and danced throughout her whole show. Her sweet voice and the happy feel of the songs were one of the most enjoyable parts of the event, especially because of her attitude: you could tell she really felt a passion for folk music. She wanted to make sure everyone was having a good time and even pulled some of the people who were sitting down into the circle where most of the people were dancing so that everyone took part of the action.

All in all, the Etnodisko felt less like a disco and more like going to a big, yet intimate, family party. The wooden ceilings, stone walls and soft light of the room made the place feel cozy and comfortable. Many people knew each other or were just genuinely happy to be around others who shared their origins and some spontaneous dances broke out throughout the whole evening, even a couple of kids completely stole the show when they began dancing to the hip-hop tunes. A few women proudly wore their beautiful traditional costumes while others used a modernised version of them or only some accessories, but the Finno-Ugric theme and people’s pride of being part of it was definitely visible. The aim of the event was achieved: everyone had a great time celebrating their roots.