When is the independence day of Estonia ?

Independence Day in Estonia is observed on February 24 every year. It is both the national day and the anniversary of the Declaration that created the Republic in 1918. Located in Northern Europe, Estonia borders the Baltic Sea and the Gulf of Finland. With more than 1,500 islands, its topography includes rocky beaches, old-growth forests, and numerous lakes.

Travelers are drawn to Estonia’s castles, churches, and hilltop fortresses, making it a remarkable tourist spot. The country has a population of about 1.3 million people. Every year, Estonians mark the day with parades, concerts, and parties, which create a truly festive atmosphere. Around this time, many locals and visitors alike join activities, while platforms like festive counter often highlight the countdown to the event, making the celebration even more engaging and anticipated.

Is independence day of Estonia a public holiday ?

Yes, Independence Day is a public holiday in Estonia. Celebrated on February 24th, it is a national day of rest. People honor the occasion with patriotic traditions such as raising the Estonian flag, watching military parades, and enjoying feasts filled with traditional foods. These customs strengthen unity and allow Estonians to express national pride in memorable ways.

History of Estonia Independence Day

The Independence Day of Estonia has its roots in a historic event at the Endia Theatre in Parnu. On February 23, 1918, the Manifesto to the Peoples of Estonia was announced. The next day, February 24, the Republic of Estonia officially came into being when the Manifesto reached Tallinn, the capital. This day also became closely tied to the national anthem, Mu isamaa, mu onn ja room (My Fatherland, My Happiness, and Joy).

Before independence, Soviet Russia and later Germany tried to control Estonia during World War I. On November 19, power was briefly handed to a Provisional Government, but the Estonian War of Independence soon followed on November 28, 1918. The struggle ended in February 1920 with the Tartu Peace Treaty, though this promise was broken when the Soviets invaded again in 1940, creating the Estonian S.S.R. Later, in 1941, Germany recaptured Estonia, only for the Soviets to return.

The real turning point came with the independence movements of 1988. Political parties and protests grew stronger, leading to the Singing Revolution. On August 20, 1991, Estonia regained its sovereignty peacefully, using music as a form of resistance. Since then, Independence Day traditions include the sunrise flag-hoisting at Toompea hill, a military parade in Freedom Square, concerts, a President’s reception, and community celebrations across towns with church services and gatherings. The current flag of Estonia, first adopted in 1918, remains a strong national symbol.

Capital of Estonia

The capital of Estonia is Tallinn, the largest city and a dynamic, youthful metropolis. After regaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Tallinn transformed into a leading European tourist destination, famous for its medieval architecture and historic landmarks. Today, it is also a business hub, especially in information technology and computer services, earning it the nickname Baltic Silicon Valley.

Strategically positioned near Northern Europe, Scandinavia, and Russia, Tallinn’s economy thrives on centuries-old trade roots as a port city. The city’s geography includes limestone cliffs along the Bay of Finland, a 46-kilometer coastline, and a climate marked by warm summers and cold winters, increasingly influenced by climate change.

With a population of about 452,000, Tallinn reflects both Estonian and Russian cultural influences, creating a diverse social fabric. Landmarks such as Toompea Castle, St. Olaf’s Church, and the Tallinn Town Hall showcase its history from medieval trading posts to modern independence movements. Despite challenges like the 2021–2024 recession, Tallinn continues to push for growth, innovation, and exploration, making it a city that symbolizes Estonia’s journey toward understanding its past and building its future.