Tartu marks restored independence with ceremony, music and dancing

Tartu is marking the 35th anniversary of Estonia’s restoration of independence with speeches, music, a special programme of town hall bells and a folk dance celebration, ERR reported.

The traditional ceremony began at 11 a.m. at the monument to the War of Independence.

At noon, the celebrations continued at the Koidula and Jannsen memorial square with a folk dance event featuring folk musicians Henrik Hinrikus and Tanel Sakrits.

Visitors can also take part in craft activities organised with the Estonian National Museum and Tartu Nature House until 2 p.m.

The town hall bells will play a special programme throughout the day, including Juhan Aavik’s “God, Protect Estonia”, René Eespere’s “Time of Awakening”, Peep Sarapik’s “He Flies Toward the Beehive”, Karl August Hermann and Alo Mattiisen’s “I Am Estonian and Will Remain Estonian”, and Gustav Ernesaks’s “My Fatherland Is My Love”.