What Is Jaanipäev? Estonia’s Beloved Summer Holiday Explained
- La Tienda
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
If you're an expat living in Estonia or just recently moved here, you might be hearing a lot about Jaanipäev, especially as the summer solstice approaches. But what exactly is this holiday, and why is it such a big deal?
What is Jaanipäev?
Jaanipäev (St. John's Day) is one of the most important holidays in Estonia, celebrated every year on June 24th, with the main festivities usually happening the night before, on June 23rd. It’s Estonia’s Midsummer celebration, marking the longest day and the shortest night of the year.
How Do Estonians Celebrate Jaanipäev?
Jaanipäev is all about nature, tradition, and spending time with family and friends. Estonians typically:
Light bonfires (called jaanituli)
Grill outdoors and enjoy summer food and drinks
Dance, sing, and play games late into the night
Some even search for the mythical fern flower said to bloom only on this magical night
It is a time of national pride and ancient tradition. It is also meaningful because it commemorates Estonia’s regained independence in 1919.
Important Note for Shoppers: Shipping Delays Expected
Since Jaanipäev is a public holiday in Estonia, most local businesses close or operate with limited hours, including postal and courier services. At LaTienda.ee, we’re still accepting orders as usual, but please note that shipping may be slightly delayed over the Jaanipäev weekend.
Celebrate at Home with Latin Flavor!
While locals light their bonfires, why not light up your kitchen with some Latin American flavor? From tortilla flour to yerba mate, we’ve got everything you need, and yes, we ship to Finland and the Baltics!
Thank you for reading
La Tienda Team
コメント