When Estonians start talking about the weather, barbecues, and plans for Midsummer in June, one thing is clear: one of the most eagerly awaited holidays of the year is just around the corner.

Midsummer Day is celebrated in Estonia on 24 June, but the main festivities take place the evening before, on 23 June, known as Midsummer Eve. The towns grow quieter; many people head to the countryside, to their summer cottage or to stay with friends, and bonfires are lit all across Estonia.

Why is Midsummer celebrated?

Midsummer Day is associated with the summer solstice – the time of year when the days are longest and the nights shortest. In Estonia, it does not get completely dark at night at this time of year: these are some of the brightest nights of the year.

After a long, dark winter, this is a special moment for Estonians. Nature is green, the days are long, and summer is just around the corner. The weather may be fickle, but people who are truly in the spirit of Midsummer will not let that bother them.

Midsummer bonfire – the centrepiece of the evening

The best-known tradition of Midsummer is the Midsummer bonfire. People gather round the fire, chat, listen to music, eat, and spend time together with family or friends. Many towns and villages hold public Midsummer celebrations, and smaller gatherings take place in people’s backyards and summer cottages.

In the old days, it was believed that the Midsummer bonfire offered protection and brought good luck. Nowadays, it is primarily a lovely excuse to get together and enjoy the bright summer night. When lighting a bonfire, it is essential to follow safety precautions: the fire must be kept a safe distance from buildings and the forest, and must not be left unattended.

What do people eat during the holiday? 

Midsummer is almost always accompanied by barbecuing. Common Midsummer dishes include shashlik, sausages, meat, fish, vegetables, potato salad, fresh cucumbers and tomatoes – every family and group of friends has their own favourites.

If you are invited to a Midsummer event, it is polite to bring something along: for example, something for the barbecue, a drink, or sweets. Midsummer is a feast where everyone brings something to share – which usually means that there is more food than people can eat.

Fern flowers and glow-worms

There are many old beliefs associated with Midsummer Eve. The most famous of these is about the fern flower, which, according to legend, blooms only on Midsummer Eve and brings the finder luck, prosperity, or love. Ferns do not actually bloom, but that has not broken the tradition. Going on a search for fern flowers is rather a playful and romantic reason to take a walk in nature on a summer night.

But you may actually see the glow-worm, a small, glowing insect, on Midsummer Eve. If you notice a greenish glow in the grass, you have found something quite magical.

How can I take part in Midsummer celebrations?

Midsummer is celebrated throughout Estonia. If you have not been invited to anyone’s home or summer cottage, it is worth checking out the public Midsummer events in your local area. They take place in towns, villages, and open-air museums, and often feature music, dancing, food, and a huge Midsummer bonfire.

Midsummer does not require any special preparation or knowledge of all the customs. All you need is to be prepared to spend the evening outdoors, enjoy the company, and put up with the mosquitoes. It is worth packing some warmer clothes too, as the weather on Midsummer Day in Estonia is always a bit of a gamble.

A quick reminder for Midsummer

Be sure to bring:

●      something to share

●      a warm jumper or jacket

●      comfortable shoes

●      insect repellent

●      good mood

Some useful words:

• Jaanipäev – Midsummer Day
• Jaaniõhtu / jaanilaupäev – Midsummer Eve
• Jaanituli – Midsummer bonfire
• Šašlõkk – barbecue meat
• Sõnajalaõis – fern flower
• Jaaniuss – glow-worm
• Valged ööd – white nights

See you by the bonfire!

Article was published in the Settle in Estonia newsletter, which is designed to support new migrants in their adaptation process and help them feel at home in Estonia more quickly. The newsletter helps make adaptation easier and keeps readers informed about important information needed for everyday life in Estonia. You can subscribe to the newsletter here.

Trips to the Botanical Garden, the Estonian Open Air Museum and even the Viking Village – all of these become part of learning the Estonian language. Estonia offers free specialised courses where the language is taught not only from textbooks, but through culture, excursions, and live communication. A RusDelfi correspondent attended one of these classes and found out how adult learners overcome their fear of speaking Estonian.

The article was originally published in the news portal rus.delfi.ee.

‘Even at my respectable age, one can and should learn a language!’

Monday, almost five o’clock. Those who have been coming here for several months gradually begin to enter the classroom. Conversations almost immediately switch to Estonian. The atmosphere resembles a gathering of acquaintances more than an ordinary language course.

‘Let’s boost our Estonian!’ the newcomers smile as they settle at the tables.

There are hardly any young people here – mostly older adults. There are also senior citizens. A cheerful blonde woman adjusts her scarf and carefully takes a worn notebook and pen out of her handbag.

‘Even at my respectable age, one can and should learn a language!’ she remarks cheerfully.

The handwritten pages make it immediately clear that the notebook has long been a constant companion. Inside are Estonian words, phrases, complete sentences, and handwritten notes. The others also begin preparing for the lesson: some arrange their materials, some revise vocabulary, while others discuss something with their neighbours at the table. The teacher asks everyone to register their attendance and briefly checks the list of participants.

Gradually the classroom falls silent. Everyone takes their places in groups – the lesson begins. For now, the work is carried out in small teams: participants discuss assignments, select words and try to speak as much Estonian as possible.

To create a language environment, volunteers work at every table

In the classroom is teacher and linguist Ülle Rannut. Speaking to the journalist, she emphasises that these sessions cannot be called ordinary language courses. There is no strict division by proficiency level and no classical teaching model.

‘We state that an approximate A2 level is required, but after that it does not really matter how advanced a person’s language skills are. We try to make it interesting for everyone – both for those who are only beginning to speak and for those whose level is already very good,’ she explains.

According to Rannut, the groups usually consist of around 15 people. Meetings take place twice a month in the classroom and twice more in the form of educational excursions. At present, participants are studying the topic of nature, and the most recent trip was devoted to the Viking Village.

The main feature of the programme is its focus not on grammar but on overcoming the language barrier. ‘This is not a course where a person comes in order to pass a particular examination. The main problem people face is that they simply have no one with whom to speak Estonian,’ says Ülle Rannut.

To create a language environment, native Estonian-speaking volunteers work at every table. Participants can communicate freely both with one another and with the volunteers. ‘Our goal is for a person to stop being afraid to open their mouth and start speaking Estonian. We want them to speak automatically rather than thinking every second, “I am speaking Estonian now”,’ the teacher notes. According to her, many participants later admit that they feel more confident in an Estonian-speaking environment and are less afraid of communication.

The language barrier disappears much faster

The programme is built around cultural and social topics: nature, sustainability, history, traditions, and contemporary life in Estonia. To support this, games, vocabulary cards, videos, mind maps, and practical assignments are used.

‘A topic may seem complicated, but it can be discussed in simple terms. For example, we talk about community gardens, green spaces, and renewable energy. Or we study the Vikings – afterwards the participants even write runes and make their own rune stones,’ says Rannut.

There are indeed photographs of runes on the classroom walls. There are also many teaching materials and game cards that help explain the topic of the lesson. All of this is actively used in language learning.

Particular attention is paid to practical participation. During lessons, participants have, for example, studied aromatic herbs – smelling them, sorting them, and grinding them in a mortar.

‘Many people are kinaesthetic learners. When they do something with their hands, the language barrier disappears much more quickly,’ explains the teacher.

According to Ülle, the main obstacle in language learning often turns out to be not linguistic but psychological. That is why the project involves even a volunteer psychologist who helps people cope with their fear of communication. ‘The most important thing is to start speaking. Once a person stops being afraid, they acquire the language much more quickly,’ she is convinced.

The language was still not sufficient for full communication

For many participants, learning Estonian is not only a necessity but also a way to feel part of society. Galina, a kindergarten teacher originally from Ukraine, says that she has lived in Estonia for many years and that her son Ruslan was born here. Despite her many years of living in the country and working in a Russian-speaking nursery school, she admits that the language was still not sufficient for full communication and confidence in everyday life.

‘I am an early childhood education teacher. I studied Estonian, passed examinations and obtained the required qualification, but then I continued working in a Russian-speaking nursery school, so there was little practice,’ she says.

According to Galina, the new specialised courses differ from ordinary language classes in that language learning here is closely connected with the culture, history, and way of life of the country. Participants not only attend classroom sessions but also go on excursions and become acquainted with the traditions and nature of Estonia.

‘It is no longer simply language as an end in itself. You want to understand the culture, the history, and the people. It is very interesting that everything here is interconnected: music, art, excursions, and communication,’ she explains.

‘People need more than just language learning’

Galina is particularly impressed by the motivation of Ukrainians who have recently arrived in Estonia. She gives the example of one course participant who managed to master the language well within just a few years.

‘I have enormous respect for such people. She is highly motivated and already speaks fluently,’ the woman notes.

According to her, opportunities for learning the language have increased significantly today: online courses, volunteer programmes, conversation clubs, and specialised integration projects. ‘Those who genuinely want to learn the language now have tremendous opportunities. The key is motivation,’ Galina believes.

She adds that she herself continues to attend language courses and tries to support her son in learning Estonian. At the same time, she admits that studying is already more difficult at her age and that some situations still cause stress.

‘His level is already good, while I still find it difficult. But I still have to learn – in order to understand people, feel more confident, and be part of this community,’ she says.

In the opinion of the course participant, programmes of this kind are especially important for those who have recently moved to Estonia and are only beginning to become acquainted with the country. ‘People need more than just language learning. They need to understand the culture, how people live and how they think. Then integration happens in a completely different way,’ Galina is convinced.

Integration Foundation invites adult residents of Estonia from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds to participate in programmes starting in March and taking place in Tallinn, Tartu and Pärnu. The programmes offer an opportunity to develop Estonian language skills through real-life communication and to gain a deeper understanding of Estonian culture and traditions.

The programme includes:

• workshops and discussions (a total of 20 academic hours), where we talk about life and culture in Estonia;
• joint study visits (a total of five visits), during which we will visit museums, exhibitions and take part in guided tours.

Where and when?

Meetings and study visits take place on weekday evenings or at weekends, so you can participate alongside work or studies.

Registration: iseteenidus.integratsioon.ee 

The activities have been co-financed by the Swiss Confederation to reduce economic and social disparities in the European Union. The Swiss-Estonian cooperation programme supports activities that help people of different nationalities and linguistic backgrounds to better integrate into Estonian society. The programme aims to foster a feeling of unity and provide opportunities for participating in cultural and educational activities. Support is provided, for example, for learning Estonian, getting to know Estonian culture, developing digital services and volunteering, and events that bring together people from different linguistic and cultural backgrounds. The activities of the programme help participants to better understand life in Estonia and find their place in society. The programme is implemented by the Ministry of Culture in cooperation with the Integration Foundation and other partners.

April is traditionally known as April Fools’ month in Estonia. Now is the perfect time to explore some of the quirky expressions in the Estonian language, which may seem rather odd at first glance. Did you know that in Estonian, not all phrases necessarily mean exactly what you read in the dictionary?

Loviisa Mänd, junior researcher at Tallinn University, is studying Estonian idioms and metaphors. These are phrases whose meaning cannot be deduced directly from the individual words. If you try to translate such phrases word for word, the result can be quite confusing.

For example, if someone tries to ‘talk a hole in your head’ (auku pähe rääkida), your health is not at any risk. What it actually means is that someone very persuasive is trying to get you to agree to something.

Some expressions also change their meaning over time. Let’s take the phrase ‘elbow feeling’ (küünarnukitunne) as an example. Originally, this meant close cooperation and a sense of unity – the knowledge that you are not alone. However, these days, people are increasingly using it also when they are physically in a cramped space, such as on a crowded bus or in the back seat of a car, where someone’s elbow is literally right up against yours.

Put yourself to the test! Can you guess what these idioms actually mean? Choose the correct answer.

1. vanast rasvast (‘from old fat’) 

a. from existing resources

b. without hindrances, with ease

c. from poor-quality raw materials

2. kätt valgeks tegema/saama (‘getting/making your hand white’)

a. becoming honest

b. taking part in a brawl

c. doing something for the first time

3. pika hambaga (‘with long teeth’)

a. reluctantly

b. bit by bit

c. cautiously

4. seanahka vedama (‘dragging pigskin’)

a. lazing about

b. doing unnecessary work

c. behaving lousily

5. hambasse puhuma (‘blowing in the teeth’)

a. going hungry

b. lying

c. asking insistently

6. mütsiga lööma (‘hitting with a hat’)

a. acting without preparation

b. saying something bluntly and directly

c. giving in, admitting defeat

7. lahtise käega (‘with an open hand’)

a. violent

b. skilled

c. generous

8. läbi lillede ütlema (‘saying it through the flowers’)

a. misleading

b. apologising

c. hinting at

9. peenike pihus (‘something thin in the palm’)

a. in a difficult situation

b. payment in cash (coins)

c. new parents

10. nagu munas kana (‘like a hen trying to lay an egg’)

a. powerless

b. overly protective

c. restless

The correct answers: 1. a; 2. c; 3. a; 4. a; 5. b; 6. a; 7. c; 8. c; 9. a; 10. c

You can find more idioms here: https://novaator.err.ee/1609963469/keeleviktoriin-kui-hasti-tunned-eesti-keele-kujundlikke-valjendeid 

The Integration Foundation invites residents of Maardu to participate in a series of educational and conversational events designed to help them learn and practice the Estonian language. Participants can improve their language skills, acquire new knowledge, and explore different learning formats.

Maardu as an important hub for language practice

Maardu was not chosen as the location for these regular meetings by chance. In the opinion of the foundation, the city could offer significantly more opportunities for practising Estonian.

‘There are relatively few opportunities to practice Estonian in Maardu. Therefore, we decided to build on our previous experience and start organising events at the Maardu community centre,’ said Valeria Siminko, coordinator of the Integration Foundation for Harju County.

The Integration Foundation offers several discussion and learning formats at the Maardu community centre: ‘Playful Language Learning’, ‘The Joys of Communication’ – Tuesdays at 2.00 p.m.

‘Communication Pantries’ and ‘Language Practice’, ‘Language Training in Maardu’ – Thursdays at 5.00 p.m.

Varied learning formats and direct interaction

The programmes of the Foundation are based on live interaction and active participation. Classes are led by specialists who are native Estonian speakers.

‘The most popular event is Playful Language Learning, held once a month on Sundays. Typically, two instructors guide up to 24 participants. At the beginning, people get to know each other, and the instructors provide an overview of the session. Depending on the topic, we use various forms of interaction – from group work and conversations in pairs to playful methods and pronunciation exercises,’ explained Valeria Siminõko.

Due to high demand, the Foundation has also added smaller group sessions for up to 12 participants. These are held weekly:

• Tuesdays at 2.00 p.m. – daytime group
• Thursdays at 5.00 p.m. – evening group

Intended participants

The programmes are open to all language learners, but they are especially beneficial for those who have already acquired a basic level of Estonian.

‘Language practice is, of course, most effective after completing a level A2 course. At the same time, people are different, and for many, it is important simply to be in a language environment – to listen, read, and, even if initially less active, still be a committed participant. Therefore, we welcome participants whose language skills start from level A2 and beyond,’ noted Siminõko.

The organisers emphasise that the sessions are also well-suited to those who wish to refresh their language skills after a longer break.

Language for everyday life and inner motivation

The experience of the Integration Foundation in Maardu shows that such events help people not only prepare for exams but also support their intrinsic motivation to use the language. Even after successfully passing language exams at levels A2–C1, many participants continue attending language and cultural events.

Valeria Siminõko referred to this as ‘the magic of success’: ‘After passing exams at levels A2–C1, people do not stop participating in language and culture events. Now, they use the language for themselves and for everyday life, which represents an entirely different level of motivation. We are especially happy when participants who have already passed their language exams join us – they can support those who are still hesitant to speak Estonian with their positive experience and confidence.’

Participation and registration

Participation in all of the events listed above is free of charge. The activities are funded by the Integration Foundation.

To take part:

• Choose a suitable event from the event calendar on the website integratsioon.ee and sign up.
• Keep in mind that a session will take place only if a sufficient number of participants register.

The coordinator of the Integration Foundation encourages people not to postpone learning: ‘Take advantage of the opportunities available to you – do not wait for the perfect moment, act here and now,’ Valeria Siminõko advised.

Some of Veronika Reshetilina’s fondest childhood memories, having grown up in Ukraine, are linked to Estonia, where she used to visit her grandparents in Lasnamäe every summer. In January 2022, she visited Estonia again to celebrate the arrival of the new year and her 19th birthday. When the celebrations were over, she had no idea that life would bring her back here just a few months later – this time, to seek refuge from the war that had broken out in her homeland.

Today, four years later, 23-year-old Veronika speaks Estonian with almost no accent, is studying to become a social media specialist at the Tallinn College of Economics and Services, supports her Estonian partner at disc golf tournaments, and enjoys her work at the Saue Youth Centre.

The dream of living in Estonia

Veronika has a long and fascinating history with Estonia. Her grandparents lived in Tallinn, and her mother was also born here and went to school here. Due to the twists and turns of life, Veronika’s parents lived in both Estonia and Germany before eventually settling in Ukraine, where Veronika and her older sister were born. 

The family often visited her grandparents in Estonia during the school holidays, and so the girl developed a special bond with the country. ‘My mother lived in Ukraine for over 30 years as an adult and considered herself Ukrainian, but at the same time, she always wanted to return to Estonia, because it is, after all, her homeland. I also became fascinated with the country because she talked about it all the time and we were constantly visiting Estonia. It was all so different, and the language here seemed so special. I used to dream that when I grew up and finished school, I would come and live here.’

Although Veronika had been thinking about moving to Estonia for years, her wish came true unexpectedly at the start of 2022, under difficult circumstances. When war broke out, she had to act quickly. ‘I managed to keep a cool head. I took my documents and money, put my nieces and nephews in the car, and we set off,’ recalls Veronika, who was just 19 at the time.

What followed was a week-long journey, filled with uncertainty and fear. The hardest part was the 70-hour wait at the border, just five kilometres from the safe haven of the border crossing. ‘We were running out of food. We gave the children almost everything we had brought with us from home. Fortunately, there was a farm near the border crossing where the people had made a large pot of soup and were serving it in small bowls to everyone waiting there. That meal was probably the only thing that saved us.’ 

On the evening of 1 March, when Veronika finally arrived in Estonia, a new chapter began for her.

‘Where are your clothes hangers?’

Veronika did not just sit there idly. Her first job was at an H&M clothing store, where she was hired as a customer service assistant. Se immediately set about learning Estonian and practised it at every opportunity, not afraid to make mistakes. 

There is one incident that still stands out clearly in Veronika’s memory. ‘An elderly lady came up to me and asked where the clothes hangers – riidepuud – were. But I heard her say ‘clothes shop’ – riidepood. I stood there in the middle of the big shop, gestured around me, and explained that it was right here! I think we miscommunicated for about five minutes, until the lady finally gave up and walked away. It was only later, when I asked the manager, that I found out that she meant another word,’ Veronika chuckles. 

Despite the amusing incident, the young woman believes that you learn best by being bold and taking action. ‘I knew I was making mistakes, but I was not afraid of getting it wrong. I started talking straight away; I did not wait for someone to come and help.’

Mastering the language by speaking to yourself

Veronika believes that her musical background has helped her to learn Estonian quickly. Before coming to Estonia, she studied classical singing at a music college in her home country. Although her initial dream of continuing her studies at the Estonian Academy of Music and Theatre was cut short by the war, her ear for music helped her to grasp the pronunciation of the Estonian language.

To learn Estonian, she attended language courses as part of the Settle in Estonia integration programme and made the most of every opportunity to practise. ‘As I walked home from language class, I went over what we had learnt that day and thought about how I could use those words or phrases in conversation,’ she explains. ‘I imagined conversations in my head, such as what I would say to my partner’s parents. It did not matter what it was exactly; I was just chatting to myself in my head. And when I was at home, whenever I was doing something, I would comment on it to myself, for example, “I am making tea, I am drinking tea.” That way, I remembered the sentences much better,’ she shares her tip. 

Pop culture also helped her learn the language. Veronika started listening to Estonian music and learnt the pronunciation from the lyrics – even when she did not quite understand what the song was about. On her partner’s recommendation, she watched all the seasons of the popular TV series Kättemaksukontor, and, much to her surprise, she soon became a real fan.

A role model for young people

Veronika has now found her calling as a youth worker at the Saue Youth Centre. She holds the Estonian youth work system in high regard and appreciates the importance placed on young people here. ‘A youth centre is a place where young people can feel that they belong. I want to be a role model for them and show them that, even when things are tough, anything is possible. I sometimes sit with them and help them with their maths homework. They help me become better as well,’ she says with genuine joy.

Adapting also means getting used to local customs. Veronika laughs, saying that the biggest arguments between her and her Estonian partner are about food. ‘I am perfectly happy to eat strawberries with sour cream and sprinkle sugar on top. My partner cannot fathom how anyone can eat sour cream with sweet things, even though their favourite childhood treat was blueberries with milk and sugar,’ Veronika chuckles.

She has learnt quite a few things about Estonians from her partner. For example, how much disc golf is loved here. ‘When they first showed me how the game works and got me to have a go, I thought, “Oh my goodness, what a nightmare – is this really a proper sport?”’ the young woman laughs. I know a great deal about disc golf now.’

Even though she does not play a lot, the disc golf community has become very close to her and given her a strong sense of belonging. ‘They have welcomed me so warmly, just like a member of the family. Every Sunday when there is a game, I know I will be going along because there are so many lovely people there. We hug and chat; some of us bring pastries along, which we eat together. The men play and the women sit there chatting. Although it is not a sport I would want to play myself, I have really come to enjoy being part of it.’

Veronika is certain that what has helped her most in adapting has been her courage and determined action. ‘At school, I kept to myself a bit at first, because I did not know how to open up as an adult in a new environment, or whether my Estonian was good enough. I later realised there was no point in wasting time and energy on pointless worrying. I am who I am, and I speak as well as I can. The right people will stay in my life anyway,’ the young woman is certain.

Veronika’s three tips for newly arrived immigrants:

1. Learn the language, even if it is just a little. ‘Learning a few phrases is not that difficult, but it means a lot to Estonians: they will welcome you much more warmly if you at least make an effort.’
2. Be bold and open-minded. ‘Do not be afraid to try new things and get to know people, because the people here are actually really nice and helpful. If you are positive and open-minded, people will treat you the same way.’
3. Respect the local culture. ‘You do not have to live your life exactly as the locals do, but keep an open mind about local customs and do not criticise them. Discover the culture and try to understand it.’

The Settle in Estonia Programme is a free educational programme provided by the Estonian state which is intended to help the foreigners who have arrived in Estonia to adapt and become accustomed to local life more easily. We offer courses for people who have come to live or study in Estonia and have lived here for less than 5 years. For example, war refugees to whom Estonia offers international or temporary protection, as well as people who have come to Estonia to work or do business here or relocate with their family member. The adaptation program The Settle in Estonia Programme is free for participants. We offer language training and other courses to help you cope with everyday life in Estonia. Read more and register: https://integratsioon.ee/en/kohanemine. The adaptation programme is co-funded by the European Union and the state budget.

March brings not only the first signs of spring, but also an important event in the Estonian calendar – Mother Tongue Day (or Estonian Language Day). Every year on 14 March, Estonians celebrate the beauty, history, and preservation of their language.

The status of Estonian as the official language is something that cannot be taken for granted. For centuries, Estonian was mainly the spoken language of the peasantry, while German and Russian dominated in government and education. The change came with Estonia’s independence. In 1919, Estonian was declared the official language. This was a significant step – for the first time, Estonian became the language of law, science, and higher education. This historic turning point laid the foundation for the rapid development of the Estonian language, which continues to this day.

Who was Kristjan Jaak Peterson? 

The date of Mother Tongue Day, 14 March, is not random. It is the birthday of Estonian poet Kristjan Jaak Peterson (1801–1822). Peterson was an extraordinary young man who spoke at least 16 languages, but chose to write in the ‘vernacular’, which was looked down upon at the time. During his short life, which lasted only 21 years, he asked a question in his famous ode ‘The Moon’ which is still dear to Estonians’ hearts to this day:

‘Cannot the language of this land,

with the breeze of the song

rise to the heavens

to seek eternity?’

These lines symbolise the belief that even a small language can be a world-class language of high culture. Peterson’s courage and belief in the Estonian language are the reasons why we celebrate Mother Tongue Day on his birthday.

How to celebrate Mother Tongue Day? Put yourself to the test!

Although Peterson’s legacy is old, celebrating Mother Tongue Day as a national holiday is a relatively new tradition. The idea came from Meinhard Laks, a schoolteacher from Kadrina, back in 1995. 

Nowadays, one of the most popular events on Mother Tongue Day is the e-dictation contest held by Vikerraadio. It is a fun and engaging challenge where thousands of people write down the text they hear on the radio in real time. This is an excellent opportunity for new Estonian residents to challenge themselves, as the competition also has a separate category for those whose native language is not Estonian. More information about e-dictation is available here.

It is also worth taking a look at Sõnaveeb (soneveeb.ee). It is the best digital assistant for any language learner, providing clarity in both word meanings and conjugations. To celebrate Mother Tongue Month, the Estonian Language Institute is publishing humorous short videos on its Facebook page introducing new words in the Estonian language. 

The Estonian language is our shared treasure. On this Mother Tongue Day, we invite you to appreciate the beauty of the Estonian language, participate in an e-dictation, and celebrate this wonderful language with us!

Kristjan Jaak Peterson, ‘The Moon’:

“Kas siis selle maa keel

laulu tuules ei või

taevani tõustes üles

igavikku omale otsida?”

Can’t the language of this land, 

rising to the sky, 

seek eternity in the song of wind?

Can’t this lands language

with the breeze of the song 

not rise to the heavens

to seek eternity

Article was published in the Settle in Estonia newsletter, which is designed to support new migrants in their adaptation process and help them feel at home in Estonia more quickly. The newsletter helps make adaptation easier and keeps readers informed about important information needed for everyday life in Estonia. You can subscribe to the newsletter here.

Imagine the scene: a train rattling through the sun-drenched hills of Northern Italy. Within five minutes of sitting down, you’ve shared your life story with a stranger, argued about the best way to cook pasta, and exchanged three phone numbers. Now, contrast that with a bus ride through Tallinn in the dead of November. It is silent. Every passenger sits exactly one seat apart, their bags acting as protective shields on the neighboring chair.

For many, this transition would have been a cold shower. For Mattia Dossetto, an Italian former chef and social worker, these cultural contrasts were an inevitable part of the 'mindset shift' he was looking for when coming to live in Estonia. After nearly three years in Tallinn, Mattia has moved from the professional kitchen to the heart of Estonian social projects, helping other expats navigate their own journeys and find their roots and wings.

A Love That Led to a Leap of Faith

Mattia’s journey to Estonia actually began in the Czech Republic, where he met an Estonian young woman while working for Erasmus+. “So yes, like many other Italians that I have met, the reason for moving to Estonia is that I fell in love with an Estonian woman,” he laughs.

Together, they weighed their options, but Estonia’s professional landscape won him over. “The main reason was love, but another was career prospects. In Italy, it's easier to start things, but it's difficult to get stability. I was searching for a different mindset and I really liked what I saw in Estonia when I first visited.”

E-Estonia: 15 Minutes to Start a New Life

Mattia’s leap of faith meant moving to Tallinn in the dark of November. However, the gray weather was quickly offset by the country's digital efficiency. “I’ve heard about Estonia as an IT country and Tallinn being a very digital place, but I had no idea what that meant,” he admits. The speed of the system was an immediate revelation: “I opened my company in 15 minutes,” he says, noting the sharp contrast to the bureaucratic hurdles of his home country.

But a new country meant starting from scratch. With a background as both a chef and a social worker, Mattia initially took the most practical route. “I started working in restaurants—the first job I found,” he recalls. However, his second year in Estonia marked a significant shift. He began collaborating with various Tallinn City departments, including the departments of health, culture, and education. Today, he is a full-time project leader through Vaimse tervise sari, focusing on the two areas he is most passionate about: mental health and integration. 

Building Human Connections

Mattia now uses his own experiences to guide others through the process of integration. One of his initiatives, Roots and Wings, encourages expats to embrace their heritage while learning how to navigate Estonian society. “It’s easier to complain about everything. It’s more difficult, but more beneficial, to ask ourselves, ‘Where could I improve? What steps should I take so that this problem changes into an opportunity for growth?’” he explains. 

Another project he organizes is called Intercultural Dinners, bringing locals and newcomers together through the universal language of food. For Mattia, true integration happens through “acting together and cooperating, not just talking.”

But his impact reaches beyond the expat community. Together with his Estonian partner, Mattia visits schools and youth centers to focus on another critical area: mental health for the younger generation. “We create a space where the youth feel safe and encouraged to share about their emotions,” he says. Rather than providing clinical counseling, they focus on prevention, using creative practices like poetry and painting to help young Estonians share their dreams and future plans. “We try to build a human connection and fight isolation, especially among young people growing up in a very digital world.”

Language is the Key

Mattia is a firm believer that language is a fundamental part to integration, even if your plans here are not certain. "I’ve heard from many expats: 'I don’t know how long I will be here, so I will not study the language.' This doesn’t help. It’s like driving a car with a brake on all the time."

He recalls a breakthrough moment at a Prisma checkout counter. "The first time that I spoke Estonian at a cashier, this old lady smiled and answered me in Estonian, she was so happy! I was not speaking perfectly, but it encouraged me to do it more." 

Having just passed his A2 language exam, Mattia argues that language is a big signal of respect. “I have also noticed that Estonians open up much more if you speak the language. It's not the same if you don't. In Tallinn you could surely live with just English, but you’re kind of in a bubble in my opinion. I wanted to avoid that."

To Feel Like an Estonian

One major resource in Mattia’s journey was the adaptation program Settle in Estonia, which he utilized to the fullest. Rather than just picking one module, he dove into everything the program offered, from business to daily life. “I did all these courses. Apart from the information you get, I think it’s really the mindset of ‘I spend time learning about the country.’ This changes how you approach the place,” he explains.

Beyond the classroom, the program’s cultural excursions proved to be a turning point in his adaptation. “This was amazing—learning the history, the cultural symbols... This was the time that I felt the feelings of being an Estonian, which is different from just getting information.” For Mattia, these free resources are essential for anyone wanting to move beyond being a visitor to truly becoming part of the community.

The Soul of Estonia

Beyond the digital efficiency, Mattia has fallen in love with the Estonian 'soul'. Spending time at the girlfriend’s family cottage in the countryside—without electricity and with water fetched from a spring—helped him understand the locals’ closeness with nature. “At the beginning, when people spoke about the forest, I didn't understand it. But now that I have been there, I get it. This contact with nature is so direct; Estonians really live in harmony with nature.”

His most emotional connection to the country happened during the Song Festival (Laulupidu). “I had heard the stories of the Singing Revolution because my partner’s family was very involved in the events surrounding independence. But I was surprised by how much I was moved by it when I actually attended the event. I saw a grandfather with a little boy on his shoulders; they were both singing, and the grandfather had tears in his eyes. It was incredibly touching to see that.”

Whether ice skating on the frozen seaside of Haapsalu or leading his social projects in Tallinn, Mattia Dossetto has settled into a rhythm that works for him. He recognizes that the country’s quirks aren't always easy to navigate, but for Mattia, they are what define the experience. “Estonia is not normal at all!” he concludes with a laugh. “It’s a very specific place—in a beautiful way.”

Mattia’s Tips for a Smooth Landing in Estonia

• Release the Brake. Don’t wait until you’re sure how long you’ll stay to learn the language. Studying Estonian is a signal of respect, and locals will open up much more when they see you trying.
• Move Beyond Information. Take advantage of programs like Settle in Estonia. Don't just read about the country—go on cultural excursions and visit museums. Getting the historical context helps you understand the "why" behind the local way of life.
• Don't Limit Yourself to Tallinn. To truly know Estonia, you have to leave the capital. Explore the forests and visit little villages in the countryside.
• Find Your Community through Action. True integration happens when people do things together. Join expat Facebook groups, attend free language clubs, or go to board game nights. 
• Attend National Events. To understand the Estonian soul, you must experience the Song Festival (Laulupidu) or a village bonfire on Midsummer’s Eve (jaanipäev). These are the moments where the history and resilience of the people become visible.

The Settle in Estonia Programme is a free educational programme provided by the Estonian state which is intended to help the foreigners who have arrived in Estonia to adapt and become accustomed to local life more easily. We offer courses for people who have come to live or study in Estonia and have lived here for less than 5 years. For example, war refugees to whom Estonia offers international or temporary protection, as well as people who have come to Estonia to work or do business here or relocate with their family member. The adaptation program The Settle in Estonia Programme is free for participants. We offer language training and other courses to help you cope with everyday life in Estonia. Read more and register: https://integratsioon.ee/en/kohanemine. The adaptation programme is co-funded by the European Union and the state budget.

Eating sweet buns is a wonderful tradition, but do you know the real history of Shrove Tuesday?

Helena Haller

Head of Communications at the Estonian Open Air Museum

The custom of celebrating Shrove Tuesday is centuries old, but it is still very much alive and has remained largely unchanged.

Shrove Tuesday is a holiday that we celebrate every year. It is a moving holiday, falling on the Tuesday of the new moon seven weeks before Easter and one day before Ash Wednesday. Shrove Tuesday marks the eve of the seven-week fast before Easter, which is celebrated with dancing and frolicking, hearty meals, and outdoor fun.

One thing is certain: Shrove Tuesday cannot be celebrated without sledding. This wonderful tradition is still upheld by both young and old. According to folk wisdom, the longer the slide, the longer your flax stems would grow. But what did that mean?  In the olden days, it was believed that a long slide meant a good flax harvest. The longer the flax plant, the more beautiful the fibre it produced, the finer the yarn that could be spun from it, and the higher the quality of the fabric that could be woven from the yarn. This would allow the family to make better clothes and accumulate wealth from selling the flax. Or, in today’s terms, the longer the slide, the bigger the bank account.

Shrove Tuesday cannot be celebrated without sledding

If you go to the Song Festival Grounds in Tallinn or the slopes of Toomemägi in Tartu on Shrove Tuesday, you will see crowds of people. After all, a long slide on this day holds great significance and importance for the success of one’s work and activities throughout the coming year!

In the second half of the last century, people used to slide down hills on large sleds and even on sleighs, and go sleigh riding with horses. A century earlier, a handful of flax or a linen bag would have sufficed for this purpose, but today, plastic bags, plastic boards, and all kinds of sleds are suitable for sledding.

Shrove Tuesday is also accompanied by the tradition of spinning whirligigs. The whirligigs made from pig’s trotters make a characteristic whistling sound when spun, which was believed to ward off evil spirits. Nowadays, you can also make a whirligig from a button if a pig’s trotter seems too extreme.

In the Estonian Open Air Museum, you can also try a traditional game called kada ajamine

Shrove Tuesday is a women’s holiday, when spinning and weaving is forbidden. Traditionally, women had to go to the tavern and taste a red drink that would give them a clear complexion and rosy cheeks for the whole year. What woman wouldn’t want that? It was believed that combing and cutting hair on Shrove Tuesday would ensure long and thick locks of hair. However, cut hair should not be left scattered around, as this can lead to memory loss!

Over time, ancient Shrovetide customs and beliefs have evolved into fun Shrovetide games, such as kada ajamine and driving pigs into the field – all with the aim of ensuring that the coming year would be a good one and that filth and laziness would not creep in.

The sweetest part of Shrove Tuesday is, of course, eating Shrovetide buns

Pea soup is also a popular Shrovetide dish. Traditionally, people also cooked barley porridge on Shrove Tuesday morning, which was a festive meal for our ancestors. For lunch, pig’s trotters were prepared – as by Shrove Tuesday, only the trotters and tail remained at the bottom of the barrel from the pork reserves that had been put there for Christmas. After Shrove Tuesday, people gave up hearty dishes.

Although the Lutheran tradition does not require fasting, the springtime still meant a more meagre diet for the peasantry. Fresh milk and eggs were only available again at Easter. Our modern-day favourites – light and fluffy Shrovetide buns with whipped cream – were introduced in the 1930s. Before that, Shrovetide treats were made from barley flour.

This year, there will also be a particularly tasty event: the Tallinn Bun Fest. It is a unique winter food festival that combines Estonia’s vibrant Shrove Tuesday traditions with Tallinn’s world-class café culture. The festival takes place across the city and involves most of the cafés and bakeries in Tallinn, which offer delicious Shrove Tuesday buns – both classic and contemporary variations.

Article was published in the Settle in Estonia newsletter, which is designed to support new migrants in their adaptation process and help them feel at home in Estonia more quickly. The newsletter helps make adaptation easier and keeps readers informed about important information needed for everyday life in Estonia. You can subscribe to the newsletter here.

Moving to a new country is more than just getting a new address and forming new habits. Adapting also happens through the little things – when you begin to feel how cities ‘breathe’, what the light is like in different seasons, and how much of Estonia is covered by nature. A genuine sense of belonging usually arises when you are simply being – watching the waves or listening to the forest.

The good news is that Estonia offers many opportunities to simply be. Many of the places that give you the most authentic feel for this country are completely free. They are open 24 hours a day, all year round, and require nothing more than the desire to go and see them. Below is a selection of places across Estonia that are well suited for those who are just beginning to establish ties with their new homeland. Please note: in dark and slippery conditions, it is important to take the weather into account, choose suitable footwear, and maintain a calm pace.

A place that shows how important space is

The coast of Northern Estonia and the coastal areas of the Virumaa region give Estonia its distinctive character. In Ida-Viru County, on Narva-Jõesuu beach, you can experience wide open spaces, pine forests, and a horizon that does not end with a house or road. Walking by the sea, it is easy to notice how much Estonians value space – the opportunity to be alone without feeling lonely. The same place affects us differently in different seasons – in summer, the sea is bright and inviting; in autumn, it is harsh and dark; in winter, it is crisp and quiet. This alternation teaches you to get to know Estonia not by calendar days, but by the rhythm of nature.

A place for your mental health

When trying to understand Estonia, visiting our bogs is just as important as exploring the cities and learning the history. Mukri bog is one of those places where nature is accessible even if hiking is not your daily habit: boardwalks lead through the open landscape, where you can enjoy the horizon and the silence. In the bog, you do not have to do anything – you can just be there. Many new residents say that bogs are wonderful for their mental health: they are able to slow down and focus on the minor details, such as the sound of their footsteps on the boardwalk. In winter, bogs become winter wonderlands; in summer, there are different scents and birdsong; in autumn, the leaves turn bright colours; and in spring, water and light take over once again.

The largest waterfall in Estonia

If you want to see something that seems both familiar and surprising, go to the Jägala Waterfall. It is the largest waterfall in Estonia and a good example of how nature can be powerful here, even when distances are short. The waterfall is particularly powerful during the spring floods, but it also is worth visiting in autumn and winter – when it is cold, ice formations appear, transforming the landscape into something almost sculptural. Jägala Waterfall is perfect if you do not have much time: a short stop here will remind you that the ‘silence’ here does not always mean a flat landscape – there is also movement and energy here.

More than just a green background

In Estonia, forests are more than just a green backdrop – they are part of everyday life, a way to relax, and often something that can only be understood when you are there. Therefore, it is worth exploring the RMK hiking trails, which cover the entire country and offer routes with varying lengths and features. RMK trails are a good choice if you want to move safely and independently: the trails are mostly marked and easy to follow. You do not have to go far to get out into nature – often, a bus ride or a short drive is enough. On these trails, you quickly get the feeling that in Estonia, it is possible to organise your life in such a way that nature is not a ‘special event’, but a normal part of the week.

Lively in summer, meditative in winter

Seasonality is particularly evident on the Estonian west coast. Valgeranna Beach is a great place to experience how a place can be completely different depending on the season: lively and bustling in summer, spacious and almost meditative in winter. Walking by the sea, you will also begin to notice the unique nature of Estonian light – long evenings in summer and short days in winter, which the locals tend to adapt to rather than fight against. The meeting of the beach and the forest gives you a choice: you can either go for a long walk or just sit and watch the weather change. This simple action helps new residents feel that in Estonia, you do not always have to be rushing somewhere – sometimes, just being there is enough.

High limestone cliffs and the open sea

If you want to experience the northern and slightly harsher coastal character of Estonia, one of the most impressive places to do so is the Pakri coastal cliff. High limestone cliffs and the open sea create a feeling of being both near and far – Tallinn is not too far away, but the landscape is completely different. The weather is always part of the experience at Pakri: the wind, the fog, and the rapidly changing sky. Here, you will understand why Estonians often talk about the weather – not for the sake of small talk, but because the weather really shapes a place.

A country with many faces

In southern Estonia, the landscape and atmosphere of Estonia change. The Haanja Upland offers hills, views, and quiet roads that differ from the flatter landscapes of Northern Estonia. This region helps us understand that Estonia is not just ‘one small flat country’, but a country with many faces. In Haanja, you can enjoy the calmer rhythm of rural life and find direct contact with nature. If you are used to the city, Haanja gives you the opportunity to experience space in a way that does not feel like emptiness, but rather like a holiday.

More than just a park

Even in urban environments, there are places in Estonia where you can switch gears without having to travel far. Kadriorg Park is one of the best examples in Tallinn of how a park is not just a ‘pretty place’ but an integral part of the urban space. People walk here in every season: in the morning on their way to work, during their lunch break, and in the evening with family or friends. In Kadriorg, you can see how Estonians use public space: they are calm and quiet. For a new resident, this may be a good place to get used to the pace of city life, with greenery always nearby to provide balance.

Calm and dramatic at the same time

The uniqueness of Estonian nature is particularly evident in places where the landscape has been shaped by water and time. The Taevaskoda outcrop is a place where sandstone outcrops, forests, and the river combine to create an environment that feels both peaceful and dramatic. It is easy to understand why stories and folklore are so beloved in Estonia – the landscape itself creates a feeling that there is something more hidden here. Taevaskoda is perfect for days when you want to enjoy nature not just as a walk, but as a memorable experience.

A peninsula with its own character

The islands give Estonia a unique dimension and are just as important as the mainland. The Sõrve Peninsula offers space and tranquillity that is hard to find elsewhere. The sea and wind are ever-present at the edge of the peninsula, making it clear how much nature influences human existence: how you move, think, and plan. Here, it is easy to see that life in Estonia does not have to be fast-paced to be meaningful. It is often in places like these that a new habit emerges – to go back. Not to see, but to be.

Places to return to

If you want to get to know Estonia faster, choose one place and visit it repeatedly: the same beach in different months, the same bog in different light, and the same coastline in different winds. This is how Estonia transforms from points on a map into an experience. At some point, you will realise that these places are no longer places to go, but places to go back to. That is how you will know that this country is gradually becoming your homeland.

Article was published in the Settle in Estonia newsletter, which is designed to support new migrants in their adaptation process and help them feel at home in Estonia more quickly. The newsletter helps make adaptation easier and keeps readers informed about important information needed for everyday life in Estonia. You can subscribe to the newsletter here.

24 February is the most important national holiday for Estonians – the Independence Day of the Republic of Estonia. On this day, we celebrate our country’s independence and freedom.

This year, we are celebrating the 108th anniversary of Estonia. We invite you to take part in Estonia’s birthday traditions. Here are some ways Estonians usually celebrate this day.

• Hoisting the flag at sunrise: Many Estonians gather early in the morning to watch the blue, black, and white flag being raised (in Tallinn, the flag is hoisted on the Pikk Hermann Tower). 
• Parade: At noon, a parade of the Defence Forces will take place on Freedom Square in Tallinn. Free concerts will also be held in various cities. This will be a great opportunity to go for a walk, either alone or with your loved ones, and enjoy the festivities.
• Festive dinner: In the evening, families and friends gather at home around the table. Traditional festive meals often include sprat sandwiches, black bread, and kama.
• Watching the TV broadcast: The evening ends with the Independence Day speech by the president, a festive concert performance, and a reception, which is broadcast on ETV and watched by many.

This day is a holiday in Estonia, dedicated to family, home, and country. We invite you to wear blue, black, and white symbols on this day or offer your friends a piece of cake. 

We wish you a happy anniversary of the Republic of Estonia!

Article was published in the Settle in Estonia newsletter, which is designed to support new migrants in their adaptation process and help them feel at home in Estonia more quickly. The newsletter helps make adaptation easier and keeps readers informed about important information needed for everyday life in Estonia. You can subscribe to the newsletter here.