What is Estonia’s June 24 midsummer holiday called?

Estonia’s June 24 midsummer holiday is called Jaanipäev.

Jaanipäev is the Estonian celebration of Saint John’s Day and the summer solstice season. The holiday is one of Estonia’s most important festive occasions and is marked by gatherings in the countryside, music and large evening fires.

The best-known custom is the Jaanituli, or Midsummer bonfire. People traditionally stay awake through the short night, and older folklore connects the fire and night vigils with protection, good fortune and seasonal renewal.

Jaanipäev is closely related in name and timing to Latvia’s Jāņi and Finland’s Juhannus, but those are different national celebrations. The Estonian word “päev” means “day,” making Jaanipäev literally John’s Day.