Estonia is known for its magical Christmas markets and warm holiday spirit. Having been to both the Tallinn and Tartu markets, I can attest to their cheerful atmospheres and cosy vibes. At each, you can experience delicious glögi, a traditional winter meal (I recommend trying verivorst and hapukapsas), and many cultural events (link here).
However, as much as I love a good Christmas market (and Tallinn is frequently mentioned as one of the best), I also find that variety is the spice of life. Despite all the cultural events associated with Christmas markets, there are only so many stalls to visit, and the scenes can become repetitive quickly. So with that in mind, here are seven holiday-themed events that aren’t just wandering the markets.
1. Christmas crafts at Aparaaditehas
Aparaaditehas, a hipster, artsy mall in an old factory, offers several Christmas- and winter-themed craft events. From making or decorating your own Christmas ornaments, to making your own leather gloves, there are plenty of unique ways to experience the holiday spirit. Embrace the Estonian tradition of käsitööesemed (handcrafted goods) and make your own keepsake to remember your time in Estonia! Don’t forget to check out Aparaaditehas’ calendar of events (click here) for even more fun activities – there’s opportunities year-round!
2. Snowboarding in the city
Not the crafty type? Maybe you’ll enjoy watching some of the region’s best snowboarders and skiers shred the slopes… in Tallinn! That’s right, for one day you’ll have the opportunity to watch a snowboarding and skiing competition right in the heart of Tallinn. The annual Rail Jam (click here) brings together the best Estonian snowboarders and skiers (both youth and adults) to shred some gnar (do really well). So grab your friends and check out the riders showcasing their impressive skills.
Yours truly getting ready to shred some gnar.
3. Gingerbread Mania!
Perhaps you’re not sporty, and you’d rather be looking at art instead of making it. If that sounds like you, check out Piparkoogi Maania in Tallinn! This is your typical art museum with one caveat – everything is made out of gingerbread. While this museum is open all year, what better time to enjoy the sights (and smells) than Christmas? They also offer gingerbread workshops if you’re looking to hone your own gingerbread-baking skills.
Gingerbread ready for the oven, courtesy of Brand Estonia.
4. Enjoy a Christmas classic – the Nutcracker
For me, Christmas doesn’t really start until I’ve seen a production of the Nutcracker. This classic ballet tells the story of Marie (or Clara, depending on the production), whose godfather gives her a nutcracker for Christmas, and her ensuing adventures battling the Mouse King and travelling to the Land of the Sweets. Having been to see one version or another since the age of two, I was delighted to find that there are a couple of professional productions in Estonia. If you find yourself in Tallinn, the Estonian National Opera’s (Rahvusooper) version (linked here), choreographed and staged by Gyula Harangozó, has added contemporary elements to this beloved ballet, bringing to the “here and now.” On the other hand, in Tartu, the Vanemuise Ballet Company’s version makes a unique twist to their first act, placing Maria (Marie) in a wheelchair (link here). Either way, both theatres offer student discounts (Estonian National Opera for ISIC cardholders only) and a cosy, indoor(!) alternative to Christmas markets.
My annual Christmas Nutcracker display, featuring the Nutcracker Prince, the Mouse King, and Marie.
5. Experience historic Estonia
Looking to experience more Estonian culture? Check out the Estonian Open Air Museum! Get your New Year’s fortune told on a Seto or Lake Peipus-style homestead. Savour Goose Soup and White Spiced Biscuits from century-old recipes. See how Estonians lived before globalisation in an immersive experience of traditional farms.
A traditional building at the Estonian Open Air Museum, courtesy of Brand Estonia.
6. Fairytale scavenger hunt
For more a interactive adventure, check out the fairytale scavenger hunt in Tallinn’s Old Town. With eleven hidden installations, this self-guided tour of the medieval city will bring you to new corners and delight you with whimsical art. Not one for riddles? Don’t worry, there’s a map showing where all the installations are, or you can join a guided tour.
7. Christmas alpacas
Have small children, or just looking for something a bit more rugged? Check out a holiday farm! These are working farms, so expect mud, especially if there’s no snow. I’ve found a couple of options: one about 30 minutes south of Tallinn, and one just north of Pärnu. No matter your age, there’s something delightful about feeding carrots to alpacas and goats and petting a mini horse.
A photo corner with Jõuluvana (Santa) and Christmas alpacas at a holiday farm.
December is a month full of holiday cheer and celebration. While engaging in the expected, popular tourist activities is fun, sometimes you want to experience a bit out of the ordinary. Hopefully, this list of Christmas market alternatives has inspired you to seek out your own holiday adventures and maybe even start a new holiday tradition!
All images are author’s own unless otherwise specified.
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