Public holiday in Estonia
Independence Restoration Day in Estonia
Thursday, August 20, 2026
Nationwide public holiday
Independence Restoration Day marks Estonia’s return to independence after Soviet rule. It is a nationwide public holiday and a reminder of the country’s modern statehood.
About Independence Restoration Day in Estonia
In Estonia, Independence Restoration Day is observed nationwide as a public holiday. It commemorates the restoration of the country’s independence in 1991 and is closely associated with Estonia’s modern national identity and post-Soviet renewal. The day is observed on its own, not as part of a longer holiday period, and it has practical significance because it is one of the fixed public holidays in the national calendar.
History
On 20 August 1991, Estonia’s Supreme Council adopted the decision that restored the country’s independence during the collapse of Soviet power. The date became a formal public holiday known as Independence Restoration Day.
Traditions
The day is commonly marked by the display of the Estonian flag and by official and civic commemorations. Many people use it as a day for reflection on independence and the events of 1991.
How Independence Restoration Day is celebrated in Estonia
Ceremonial events and public gatherings are held in Estonia on this day, especially in connection with state commemoration. In Tallinn and other places, the occasion is often marked by speeches, flag displays and remembrance-focused events.
Interesting facts
The holiday is set on 20 August rather than on the original declaration of independence from 1918. It commemorates the restoration of state independence rather than the creation of the Estonian republic.
Dates in published calendars
| Year | Holiday date | Observed date | Scope |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 20 Aug 2026 | — | Nationwide |
Import sources
- Generic ICS feed
An import is not an independent verification.