Day of Restoration of Independence in Estonia
Estonia observes the Day of Restoration of Independence on August 20, a public holiday and day of rest. It marks the 1991 decision to restore the independence of the Republic of Estonia, which had been established in 1918 and occupied by the Soviet Union in 1940.[1][2]
A public holiday on August 20
Estonia’s Public Holidays and Days of National Importance Act lists August 20 as the Day of Restoration of Independence and a public holiday and day of rest. The fixed date distinguishes it from February 24, Independence Day, which marks the republic’s original declaration in 1918.[1][2]
The act names August 20 but does not set a replacement day when it falls on a weekend. A separate proposal to grant an additional day off in that situation is listed by the Riigikogu as still under consideration; it is not part of the act cited here.[1][4]
The 1991 restoration
On August 20, 1991, Estonia’s Supreme Council, coordinating with the executive body of the Congress of Estonia, adopted a decision to restore the country’s independence. The decision affirmed the legal continuity of the republic established in 1918, which had been occupied by the Soviet Union in 1940.[2][3]
The decision came during the failed coup attempt in Moscow in August 1991. Estonia’s Government Office describes the restoration as grounded in legal continuity; the decision was followed by recognition of the restored republic by other countries and the restoration of diplomatic relations.[3]
Flags and public observances
The Estonian flag is a visible part of the observance. The Government Office identifies August 20 as a flag day and says flags are to be raised on residential, commercial and office buildings, from sunrise or no later than 8 a.m. until sunset. Private people and organizations are also invited to fly the flag.[2]
Official ceremonies and events may be organized, but their details can vary. Do not assume there is a single nationwide programme, a standard regional custom or traditional food for this date.[2][3]
Work, services and planning
Because August 20 is a day of rest, many people have the day off. Work can still take place: the Employment Contracts Act provides double wages for work performed on a public holiday, unless the employer and employee agree to compensate it with additional time off.[1][5]
The holiday legislation does not set opening hours for individual banks, shops, museums or transport services. Their schedules can vary, so check directly with the provider before making plans.[1]
Frequently asked questions
Is August 20 a public holiday in Estonia?
Yes. The Public Holidays and Days of National Importance Act designates August 20 as the Day of Restoration of Independence and a public holiday and day of rest.[1]
What does the holiday commemorate?
Do people fly the Estonian flag?
Yes. The Government Office identifies August 20 as a flag day and says flags are raised on homes, commercial buildings and office buildings.[2]
Are banks, shops and public transport open?
Opening hours and service schedules are not fixed by the holiday act and may vary by provider. Check the relevant bank, shop or transport operator before travelling.[1]
Sources and references
Sources used for Day of Restoration of Independence in Estonia:
- Public Holidays and Days of National Importance Act- Riigi Teataja; issued by the Riigikogu
- Eesti lipp- Government Office of Estonia (Riigikantselei)
- Resistance Day – 22 September- Government Office of Estonia (Riigikantselei)
- Pühade ja tähtpäevade seaduse muutmise seadus 636 SE- Riigikogu
- Employment Contracts Act- Riigi Teataja; issued by the Riigikogu