Public holiday in Estonia
Victory Day in Estonia
Tuesday, June 23, 2026
Nationwide public holiday
Victory Day in Estonia is a nationwide public holiday on 23 June. It marks the Battle of Võnnu and is closely linked with the St John’s Eve celebrations that follow the same day.
About Victory Day in Estonia
In Estonia, Victory Day is both a commemoration of the country’s military victory in the War of Independence and the opening of the midsummer holiday period. It is observed nationwide and is followed immediately by St John’s Eve, so the day sits at the point where remembrance and midsummer customs meet.
History
Victory Day marks the Estonian victory in the Battle of Võnnu, fought in 1919 during the Estonian War of Independence. The holiday was established to commemorate that event and the armed struggle that helped secure Estonia’s independence.
Traditions
The day is associated with official remembrance and national symbols, especially the Estonian flag. Because it falls on the eve of midsummer festivities, many people also prepare for the night’s bonfires and gatherings.
How Victory Day is celebrated in Estonia
The president traditionally sends a Victory Day message, and official ceremonies are held to honour the country’s war dead and veterans. Public attention then shifts toward St John’s Eve and the evening bonfires that follow.
Interesting facts
Victory Day in Estonia shares its date with St John’s Eve, so the public holiday leads directly into one of the year’s most widely observed summer nights. The holiday is tied to the Battle of Võnnu, which is remembered as a decisive moment in the War of Independence.
Dates in published calendars
| Year | Holiday date | Observed date | Scope |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 23 Jun 2026 | — | Nationwide |
Import sources
- Generic ICS feed
An import is not an independent verification.