In August, the Estonian summer is in full swing: golden grain ripens in the fields, the forests are full of delicious berries, and on warm days people flock to the lakes and the seaside. As well as enjoying the summer, August also marks an important national holiday – 20 August is the Day of Restoration of Independence of Estonia.
One country, two birthdays?
If you have recently moved to Estonia, you may wonder why Estonia’s independence is celebrated in both February and August.
The explanation is simple. 24 February marks the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence of the Republic of Estonia in 1918. However, 20 August 1991 marks the day on which Estonia regained its independence following decades of occupation by the Soviet Union.
The restoration of independence was preceded by several years of major social changes. People began to speak out more and more openly about Estonia’s future, the preservation of the Estonian language and culture, and the right to decide for themselves how their country should be run. Peaceful demonstrations, public gatherings and communal singing played a key role. This period is known as the Singing Revolution.
How is 20 August celebrated?
20 August is a public holiday and Flag Day. Blue-black-white flags are flown across Estonia and concerts, family days, and community events are organised. As the anniversary falls during the summer, there will be plenty of outdoor activities.
Here are a few ways to celebrate the Day of Restoration of Independence of Estonia:
· Take part in the Narva community picnic. The Integration Foundation’s free community picnic begins at 12 p.m. in Rugodiv Park with discussions and workshops. At 5 p.m., the day continues in Joaoru, Narva, with a sing-along featuring Estonian, Russian, Ukrainian, Votic, and Izhorian songs. The evening concludes with a concert by Anne Veski.
· Take part in Family Day at the Tallinn TV Tower. The TV Tower played a significant role in the events of August 1991: the Estonian people defended the tower against Soviet military personnel. To mark the occasion, a free family day and concert will be held in the TV Tower grounds. Admission to the tower requires a ticket.
· Organise your own picnic. Go to the park, the beach, or your garden with your family or friends. You could, for example, pack some black bread, cream cakes, fresh berries, or homemade kama-mousse into your picnic basket.
There are also simpler ways to take part in the holiday: you can enjoy the flags flying, listen to Estonian music, attend an event in your local area, or ask someone you know what 20 August means to them.
Why is it worth knowing about this day?
Part of settling into life in Estonia involves getting to know the local traditions and stories. Celebrating 20 August helps us to understand why independence, the preservation of the Estonian language and culture, and the opportunity to decide for themselves on the future of their country are so important to many Estonians.
The Day of Restoration of Independence also offers a great opportunity to meet people, experience something new, and get involved in the life of your local community.
Happy Restoration of Independence Day!
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.