How to Celebrate Jaanipäev in Tallinn, Estonia

Jaanipäev, or St. John's Day, is one of the most important and widely celebrated holidays in Estonia. It takes place on June 24th, with festivities often beginning on the eve of Jaanipäev.

Here are the typical ways Estonians celebrate this midsummer festival:

Bonfires

The highlight of this festivity! Central to the celebration is the lighting of large bonfires (jaanituli). These fires are believed to bring light and protect against evil spirits, and they also serve as gathering points for communities.

You can find people gathering in popular places in and around Tallinn, including the Pirita beach area, Stroomi beach, and various local parks. It's a great way to meet locals and enjoy the communal atmosphere!

+Jumping Over the Bonfire

A popular tradition is jumping over the bonfire, which is thought to bring good luck and protect against misfortune. It's a fun and symbolic act of bravery and celebration. Pay attention while jumping tho!

Food and Drink

Traditional foods are prepared and enjoyed, especially outdoors, to take advantage of the nice weather and the white nights!

Grilling is essential: Bring a portable grill or find a designated grilling area. Prepare sausages (vorstid), marinated pork (sealiha), vegetables and some beef. Have fun while grilling and enjoy the fresh air (hoping there are no mosquitos).

Local Foods: These celebrations are always a great excuse to try Estonian black bread (must leib), potato salad (kartulisalat), and fresh berries.

Beverages: Stock up on local beers and try some traditional homemade drinks like kali (a fermented beverage). Estonians know it best!

While waiting for food to get ready, you can always play some outdoor games and sports are to add to the festive mood!

Nature and Magic

Estonians often spend time in nature, as Jaanipäev is closely linked with the natural world and the summer solstice. There are various folk beliefs and customs associated with the holiday, such as collecting medicinal plants, which are believed to be especially potent on this night.

In the old days, Midsummer was a time for fertility rituals and sacrifices to the gods, and fire smoke was believed to have healing properties. Romantic literature talks about searching for a fern flower on Midsummer's Eve. Couples go looking for it in the forest, for whom the mythical fern flower represents love!

Sauna (of course!)

Many Estonians also enjoy a traditional sauna on Jaanipäev (and we’re not surprised, we love saunas too). The sauna is an important aspect of Estonian culture and is often included in the midsummer celebrations.

Find here how to enjoy a traditional sauna and the best saunas in Tallinn!

Watching the Sunrise

Who sleeps during Jaanipäev?

Since the night is short and the sun barely sets, some people stay up to watch the sunrise, marking the end of the shortest night of the year. It happens only one time per year, after all!

Gatherings and Parties

Families and friends come together for outdoor parties. These gatherings often include traditional music, singing, and dancing. Folk songs and dances are an integral part of the festivities.