Midsummer is one of the most important holidays in Estonia, celebrating the summer solstice—the longest day of the year—and the official start of summer. Estonians celebrate by gathering together to light bonfires, sing, dance, drink, eat, and partake in other traditions. This particular bonfire took place at the Estonian Open Air Museum, where many gather on Midsummer’s Eve. One common tradition is jumping over the fire, an act believed to bring good luck and ensure prosperity.
Flower crowns are another Midsummer tradition, as well as at other cultural celebrations like the Estonian Song Festival, which takes place every five years. Flower crowns are usually handmade from a variety of wildflowers and can be quite intricate. It is believed that if a woman collects nine different types of flowers and sleeps with them under her pillow on Midsummer night, she may dream of her future spouse.
Although not a Midsummer tradition, we also took time to make a Russian children’s craft called «Зайчик на пальчик», or “Bunny on the Finger.” It is a simple craft made from just fabric, string, and a cotton ball. Like it does for Russian children, it inspired my creativity and became my little companion throughout the Midsummer festivities.
Midsummer is traditionally celebrated outdoors, as it marks the arrival of summer. Dancing barefoot is a common practice, helping participants feel grounded and more deeply connected to the earth. I eagerly embraced this part of the celebration!
Pictured here is a külakiik, a traditional Estonian village swing. These large, wooden swings are built to support multiple people at once, and with enough momentum, the swing can even make a full rotation. Swinging is another popular activity during Midsummer in Estonia, representing community.
Liza Domorad
Dan E. Davidson Fellowship Recipient
Advanced Russian Language and Area Studies Program (RLASP)
Tallinn University (TLU)
Tallinn, Estonia, Summer 2025