Victory Day in Estonia
Victory Day is a holiday in Estonia.
When is Victory Day in Estonia
Victory Day is celebrated on 23, June, 2023 in Estonia.
About Victory Day in Estonia
Victory Day, also known as Võidupüha in Estonian, is a national holiday celebrated in Estonia on June 23rd every year. The holiday commemorates two significant events in Estonian history - the victory in the Battle of Võnnu during the Estonian War of Independence in 1919, and the signing of the Treaty of Tartu in 1920, which recognized Estonia’s independence from Soviet Russia.
The Battle of Võnnu was a crucial military engagement during the Estonian War of Independence, where Estonian forces successfully defended their newly declared independence against the advancing Soviet forces. This victory played a significant role in shaping Estonia’s destiny as an independent nation.
The Treaty of Tartu, signed on February 2nd, 1920, formally ended the Estonian War of Independence and recognized Estonia’s independence from Soviet Russia. This treaty established the eastern border of Estonia, ensuring the territorial integrity of the newly formed nation.
On Victory Day, Estonia pays tribute to the fallen soldiers who fought for independence and honors their sacrifice. The day begins with a memorial ceremony at the War of Independence Victory Column in Tallinn, where wreaths are laid and speeches are given to remember the fallen heroes.
The celebrations continue with various cultural events, concerts, and parades held throughout the country. People often dress in traditional Estonian attire, and folk dances and songs are performed. Many towns and cities also organize military parades and reenactments to showcase Estonia’s military history and honor the armed forces.
Victory Day is a time for Estonians to reflect on their history, remember the struggles endured for independence, and celebrate the nation’s sovereignty. It is a day of national pride and unity, emphasizing the importance of freedom and independence for the Estonian people.
History of Victory Day in Estonia
Victory Day, also known as Võidupüha in Estonian, is a national holiday celebrated in Estonia on June 23rd each year. The holiday commemorates the victory in the Battle of Võnnu, which took place on June 23rd, 1919, during the Estonian War of Independence.
The Estonian War of Independence occurred from 1918 to 1920, following the end of World War I and the collapse of the Russian Empire. Estonia, which had been under Russian rule, declared its independence on February 24th, 1918. However, the country faced various challenges, including invasions by German and Soviet forces.
On June 23rd, 1919, the Estonian army, led by General Johan Laidoner, achieved a significant victory against the Soviet forces in the Battle of Võnnu (also known as the Battle of Cesis). This battle was a turning point in the war, as it marked the Estonian army’s successful defense against the Soviet offensive, preventing them from capturing the capital city, Tallinn.
The victory at the Battle of Võnnu was crucial for Estonia’s independence, as it demonstrated the country’s ability to defend itself against foreign invaders. It boosted morale among the Estonian population and strengthened their determination to fight for their freedom.
Victory Day was first celebrated in 1934, during the period of Estonia’s first independence. However, after the Soviet Union occupied Estonia in 1940, the holiday was banned. It was only reinstated after Estonia regained its independence in 1991 following the collapse of the Soviet Union.
Today, Victory Day is an important national holiday in Estonia, celebrated with various events and ceremonies throughout the country. The main commemorative ceremony takes place at the Victory Column in Tallinn, where the President of Estonia delivers a speech and lays wreaths to honor the fallen soldiers. Military parades, concerts, and cultural activities are also organized to mark the occasion.
Victory Day serves as a reminder of Estonia’s struggle for independence and the sacrifices made by its people during the Estonian War of Independence. It is a day to honor the country’s history, pay tribute to the fallen soldiers, and celebrate the freedom and sovereignty of Estonia.
How is Victory Day celebrated in Estonia
Victory Day in Estonia is celebrated on June 23rd every year to commemorate the victory in the Battle of Võnnu during the Estonian War of Independence in 1919. Here is how Victory Day is celebrated in Estonia:
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Flag Hoisting: The day begins with the hoisting of the national flag at sunrise in various locations across the country, including the capital city, Tallinn.
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Processions: Military parades and processions are organized, where veterans, soldiers, and various military organizations march through the streets. These processions aim to honor and remember those who fought for Estonian independence.
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Wreath Laying: Wreaths and flowers are laid at war memorials, cemeteries, and monuments dedicated to fallen soldiers. This is done to pay respects to those who sacrificed their lives for Estonia’s freedom.
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Commemorative Events: Various commemorative events are held throughout the country, including speeches, concerts, and exhibitions. These events focus on the significance of Victory Day and highlight the importance of freedom and independence.
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Traditional Celebrations: Victory Day is also an occasion for traditional celebrations, such as folk dances, music performances, and traditional Estonian cuisine. People gather in parks, squares, and public places to enjoy these cultural activities.
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Family Time: Victory Day is often seen as a time for families to come together and spend quality time. Many people organize picnics, barbecues, and outdoor activities with their loved ones.
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Fireworks: The celebrations usually conclude with fireworks displays in the evening. Fireworks light up the sky, creating a festive atmosphere and symbolizing the victory achieved by Estonia.
Overall, Victory Day in Estonia is a day of remembrance, national pride, and celebration of freedom. It is an opportunity for Estonians to reflect on their history, honor their heroes, and appreciate the importance of independence.
Dates
Victory Day will be celebrated in Estonia on 2023-06-23, 2024-06-23, 2025-06-23, 2026-06-23, 2027-06-23 in the comming years.