New Year's Day in Estonia
New Year's Day falls on 1 January and is a public holiday and day of rest under Estonian law. Estonia's Government Office says the year begins on that date in both the Gregorian and Julian calendars, and that New Year’s celebration is not coordinated by the state.[1][2]
Legal status and time off
The Public Holidays and Days of National Importance Act lists 1 January as New Year’s Day among Estonia’s public holidays and days of rest. The Government Office distinguishes these from the country’s single national holiday, which is Independence Day on 24 February; it says holidays are generally days off when work is not done.[1][2]
The Government Office also states that the working day before New Year’s Day is shortened by three hours. The act identifies 1 January as a day of rest.[1]
Meaning and observance
The Government Office describes 1 January as the beginning of the year in the Gregorian and Julian calendars. It also notes that the start of the year is known in Estonia as nääripäev.[2]
New Year’s celebration is not coordinated by the state, according to the Government Office. The official information consulted does not establish a single nationwide ceremony, particular regional customs, traditional New Year’s dishes, or a standard programme of public events, so those details should not be assumed to apply across Estonia.[2]
Planning around the holiday
The legal designation as a day of rest does not specify opening hours for individual shops, restaurants or transport services. Their schedules may differ, so residents and visitors should check directly with the service they plan to use. Check transport timetables and business opening hours with the relevant providers.[1]
Frequently asked questions
When is New Year's Day in Estonia?
It falls on 1 January each year.[1]
Is New Year's Day a day off in Estonia?
Is there a substitute day when 1 January falls on a weekend?
The cited act lists 1 January as a day of rest.[1]
Are shops, banks, and public transport open?
Check with the individual shop, bank or transport operator before travelling.[1]
Is New Year's celebration organised by the Estonian state?
No. The Government Office says New Year’s celebration is not coordinated by the state.[2]
Sources and references
Sources used for New Year's Day in Estonia:
- Public Holidays and Days of National Importance Act- Riigikogu, Riigi Teataja
- Rahvus- ja riigipühad- Government Office of Estonia (Riigikantselei)