Tartu will celebrate Midsummer’s Day on 23 June in the outdoor area of the Estonian National Museum, located on the shores of Lake Raadi. The longest day of the summer will culminate in a performance by the popular folk band Curly Strings.
The focus of the local Midsummer’s Day celebration is tradition, with an emphasis on introducing them to people from different language and cultural backgrounds. ‘You can take part in singing and dancing games, test your strength with tug-of-war and boot throwing, weave a flower wreath and make a sauna whisk, learn about traditional instruments and try on South Estonian folk costumes, among other things,’ said Ragnar Konson, producer of Tartu’s Midsummer’s Day.
The Midsummer’s Day area next to the Estonian National Museum will open at 12.00, where you can enjoy a meal and drink, and learn about local handicrafts. The programme will then continue, with both daytime and evening visitors being able to take part in the Midsummer’s Day traditions:
- 13-14, 15-16 and 17-18 / Singing and dancing games
- 14-15, 16-17 and 21.30-22 / Midsummer’s Day games
- 14-20 / Midsummer’s Day workshops
- 12-20 / Ponies and carriage rides
The evening programme begins at 19:00 when Regina Mänd and Andre Maaker take the stage. At 20:00, Mayor Urmas Klaas will light the bonfire, which will be followed by a concert by Tintura. At 22:00, headline act Curly Strings will take the stage, and at 23:45, MeisterJaan & Normaalsete Inimeste Klubi will help Midsummer’s Day visitors dance the night away.
The party is free for everyone. Explore the event: tartukorraldab.ee/en/jaanipaev/about/
The event is part of the Estonian Centre of Folk Culture’s activities within the European Social Fund and Ministry of Culture (ESF-KUM) program “Supporting Community Activities that Promote Integration”.
More information: Producer of Tartu Midsummer’s Day Ragnar Konson, [email protected], +372 5825 0301
