On Friday Estonians will gather in their communities around the world to celebrate 'Jaanipäev'. Midsummer or St. John's Day (Jaanipäev in Estonian) is one of the oldest and most important days on the Estonian calendar. To some, it's even more important than Christmas Day. On Jaanipäev Estonians will gather with their families, friends or attend larger events to celebrate this joyous day with lots of singing, dancing and wearing beautiful flower crowns. The highlight of Jaanipäev is of course the lighting of the bonfire and jumping over it. This ritual of jumping over the bonfire is believed to bring good luck and protect against evil spirits. Jaanipäev is a beloved tradition Estonians have enjoyed for centuries!
