2025 ALJA Ski Trip - Colorado!
2025-03-21 00:00 - 2025-03-24 23:59 (America/New_York) | Kentucky
The American Latvian Youth Association invites members of the Lithuanian and Estonain communities to join them for a ski weekend at Copper Mountain, Colorado.

The group will be staying in Silverthorne/Dillon, CO from March 21-23, with the option to stay through Monday. There will be options for both Epic and Ikon resorts. People of all ages are welcome, with a special shout out to Baltic youth (18-35 yrs).

More info can be found here https://alja.org/alja-notikumi/2025/3/23/2025-alja-ski-trip-colorado

https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid02taErTTzitqaJn2mGyB1bnR1hN4NiGT5j5FhSM1f8Qs6oSLEMnHKL9y1u8wzE4aEdl&id=100064656858253&mibextid=wwXIfr

From the Organizers:

ALJA is helping to sponsor a western mountain ski trip in Colorado on March 21st-23rd. This event will be open to all ages and families that would like to visit. The plan is to stay in the Silverthorne/Dillion area and ski the surrounding mountains. There are numerous options within the vicinity for both IKON ((APPROXIMATE TIMES)….(Copper Mountain – 15 min, Winter Park -1hr15) and Epic Pass Holders (Breckenridge – 20 min, Vail – 35min).

Dillion/Silverthorne are neighboring each other and have a variety of restuarants bars, etc. There is plenty to do around town, and everything is accessible off the main road through town and from highway I-70. From the airport, travel times are around 1hr20 minutes, depending on weather for that day. Driving/carpooling is the only available method of transport. Shuttles are available and can be found, prices do vary. Please note: ALJA WILL NOT BE PROVIDING transportation. Talk with friends or respond to this interest form to set up carpooling.

Lodging:

ALJA will not be providing lodging, once again, please respond to this inquiry form so we can get an accurate headcount. Depending on how many people show interest, we can group up in Airbnb’s. If you want to spend the money, Lodging is absolutely available on the mountains. Prices vary and can be extremely expensive. Hotels are also an option, but Airbnb’s/Vrbo’s are likely to be the best, most cost-efficient method of lodging. This will also make transportation and carpooling easier.

Schedule:

Friday: Arrival. Check in to most hotels/Airbnb’s is usually around 4pm, plan accordingly. Friday night @ 8pm, meet up at a bar or restaurant. TBD based on number of people.

Saturday: SKI/SNOWBOARD all day. IKON pass members will (likely) ski at Copper Mountain. Meet for lunch 12ish@ Downhill Dukes or Jack’s, Most lifts close around 330-4. Epic pass members (BOOOO Vail sucks 😀 ) can ski wherever they choose. Après ski afterwards or head back to Airbnb’s. Saturday Night 9pm, meet up at Elevation Bowling for ALJA social event. Elevation Bowl is walkable from most places in Dillion and has a full bar/food, all ages allowed. The bowling alley closes 1am(ish) and lanes cost $55/hr. We are hoping ALJA will help cover some of this cost of the bowling lanes.

Sunday: Check out of Airbnb/Head home, or ski with the locals. If people are interested in staying until Monday, just indicate that in the form. We can get a group with an Airbnb that is rented until then. We know this is last minute, but there has been a lot of interest in another ski trip out west. Any questions or need help with planning, please contact Davids Lackajs. Feel free to message him on Instagram/Facebook as well. He will also be added to the ALJA Discord channels soon.

Register or indicate interest here

Event website

Read more on Facebook

Estonian Consular Mission to NYC
2025-03-21 09:30 - 2025-03-22 16:00 | Kentucky
Consular mission in New York City, NY

The Estonian Consul in Washington, D.C., in collaboration with the Estonian Houses in New York will conduct a consular mission in New York on the following dates and times:

• New York at Estonian Permanent Representation to UN (305 East 47th St, New York, NY)

March 21: 09:30 AM – 4:00 PM

• Estonian House in New York (243 East 34th St, New York, NY)

March 22: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

If your fingerprints are outdated or nearing expiration, you can update them with the consul during the mission—free of charge. Updating your fingerprints during the mission could save you a trip to Washington, D.C., for future document renewals.

What to Bring

• Your U.S. passport (if applicable)

• Your Estonian passport or ID card

Payments during the mission can be made via debit or credit card.

Booking an Appointment:

• For New York – please book an appointment http://broneering.mfa.ee and choose the representation “Consulate General in New York.”

Estonian Consular Mission: Lakewood, NJ
2025-03-23 12:00 - 16:00 | Kentucky
Consular mission in Lakewood, NJ

The Estonian Consul in Washington, D.C., in collaboration with the Estonian Houses in New York will conduct a consular mission in New York on the following dates and times:

• March 23, 12 PM to 4 PM

Lakewood, NJ at Lakewood Estonian House

(4 Cross Street & East Veterans Hwy. Lakewood, NJ 08701)

If your fingerprints are outdated or nearing expiration, you can update them with the consul during the mission—free of charge. Updating your fingerprints during the mission could save you a trip to Washington, D.C., for future document renewals.

What to Bring

• Your U.S. passport (if applicable)

• Your Estonian passport or ID card

Payments during the mission can be made via debit or credit card.

Booking an Appointment:

• For Lakewood, consular services on that day are on a first come, first serve basis.

Call for Applicants: 2026 Fellowships at Stanford University
2025-03-24 08:00 - 2025-05-16 17:00 | Kentucky
Vabamu, Stanford University Libraries, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Estonia invite applications for the following three fellowships:

Short-Term Research Fellowships at Stanford University for Estonian Scholars

Short term Research Fellowship at Stanford University for Estonian Security and Foreign Policy Experts

The Global Digital Governance Fellowship at Stanford University for Estonian Scholars

Application deadline: May 19, 2025.

For more information, eligibility requirements, and link to apply, click here.

Baltic Advocacy Days 2025
2025-03-31 00:00 - 2025-04-02 23:59 | Kentucky
Save the Dates!

Baltic Advocacy Days 2025

Washington, D.C. Baltic Advocacy Days connects members of the Baltic diaspora and friends of the Baltics with their Congressional offices.

Baltic Advocacy Days is an opportunity to inform members of Congress on the importance of the U.S. Baltic relationship as well as highlight the strength of Baltic American communities.

Join us in Washington, D.C., to make Baltic voices heard and participate in a series of cultural, educational, and networking events. Your voice makes a difference!

Baltic Advocacy Days consist of meetings between constituents and U.S. congressional offices to inform members of Congress about the importance of the U.S.-Baltic relationship, the concerns of the Baltic American community, and continuing support for Ukraine.

Attendees will participate in two or three meetings, typically lasting approximately 30 minutes. JBANC will provide a briefing beforehand to every advocate, and no prior experience is necessary.

Participants are also invited to join a reception celebrating the Baltic American community on April 1 and a Baltic Happy Hour on April 2 to conclude the advocacy days.

Register for Baltic Advocacy Days here

“The Perfect Allies”: Examining the US-Baltic Relationship Under the Trump Administration
2025-03-31 08:00 - 17:00 | Online
Watch video recording here

Despite public statements promising increased support for Ukraine against Russia and a restoration of European hard power, many of the United States’ major allies still miss the North Atlantic Treaty Organization military spending benchmark of 2 percent of gross domestic product. Since his first term, President Donald Trump has castigated these nations and their leaders for “freeloading” on American defense spending.

But the Baltic states, which face the greatest threat from Russian aggression, have consistently held up their end of the bargain, providing an outsized amount of support for Ukraine and maintaining their military strength despite their relatively small economies.

With global threats to freedom on the rise and America’s security commitments growing uncertain, join Luke Coffey and a panel of Baltic security experts for a discussion on the future of US-Baltic relations in the second Trump administration.

Organized by The Hudson Institute.

Speakers:

Amb. Kalev Stoicescu

Chairman of the National Defence Committee, Estonian Parliament

Amb Eitvydas Bajarūnas

Visiting Fellow, Center for European Policy Analysis

Olevs Nikers

President, Baltic Security Foundation

Luke Coffey

Senior Fellow, Center on Europe and Eurasia

Event website

Inquiries: tmagnuson@hudson.org

Estonian Cultural Days NY 2025
2025-04-04 00:00 - 2025-04-06 23:59 | Kentucky

Estonian Cultural Days 2025 (NY)
2025-04-04 00:00 - 2025-04-06 23:59 | New Yorgi Eesti Maja /New York Estonian House, 243 East 34th Street, New York City, New York, 10016
The wait is over—tickets for New York Estonian Cultural Days 2025 are officially on sale! Get ready for an unforgettable celebration of Estonian music, theater, art, and culture. From Zetod’s electrifying concert to the enchanting “Öökuninganna” performance, from thought-provoking discussions to mouthwatering Estonian flavors, and so much more. Full program below.

Tickets on sale now, and going fast! Don’t miss out — get your tickets today! Come and be part of an incredible weekend of Estonian culture in the heart of New York!

Eesti Kultuuripäevad 2025, organized by the Foundation for Estonian Arts and Letters welcomes you to this year´s event-filled weekend, featuring performers, artists and delicacies from Estonia.

EANC is a proud supporter of this event!

Tickets / More info

Seminar: Meeletu 55 - Celebrating Humor in Estonian Publication
2025-04-05 10:00 - 2025-04-06 16:00 | New York Estonian House
VABA EESTI SÕNA 76: HUUMORI SEMINAR

Vaba Eesti Sõna 76: Huumori seminar
2025-04-05 10:00 - 2025-04-06 16:00 | New York Estonian House, 243 East 34th Street, New York, New York, 10016, United States
Ajalehe Vaba Eesti Sõna väljaandja The Nordic Press Estonian- American Publisher, Inc. korraldab 76 aastapäeva puhul kevadseminari “Huumor ajakirjanduses”

5. aprill

kell 10:00 Mis on Eesti Huumorimuuseum

6. aprill, kell 10.00 – 16.00

kell 10.00 Huumor ajakirjanduses

kell 11.00 Urmas Nemvaltsi koomiksi õpituba

kell 12.00 MEELETU 55

kell 13:00 huumori õpituba

Applications being accepted: Estonian Institute of Historical Memory, Summer School
2025-04-07 00:00 - 2025-05-05 23:59 | Kentucky
The Estonian Institute of Historical Memory invites young people of Estonian origin to apply for the Summer School, which takes place from August 3 – 8, 2025 in Estonia.

The aim of the program is to introduce young people to 20th century Estonian history within an international context. The 5-day program will include workshops, lectures and visits to museums and historical sites.

The application deadline is May 5 at 23:59 (Estonian time).

All the necessary information for applying can be found at (in English):https://mnemosyne.ee/call-for-applications-2025-summer-school-for-students-with-estonian-roots/

We kindly ask you to share this information with your community and on social media—feel free to repost directly from the Eesti Mälu Instituut profile.

Successful applicants will be notified by 12 May 2025.Upon any questions, please write to us at konkurss@mnemosyne.ee.

Online Discussion with "Ecocide in Ukraine" Author Darya Tsymbalyuk
2025-04-09 09:15 - 10:30 | Kentucky
Register for this important virtual discussion with Darya Tsymbalyuk, author of Ecocide in Ukraine; The Environmental Cost of Russia’s War. Polity, 2025. The conversation will be led Tallinn University’s Epp Annus.

Russia’s war on Ukraine has not only destroyed millions of human lives, it has also been catastrophic for the environment. Forests and fields have been burned to the ground, animal and plant species pushed to the brink of extinction, soil and water contaminated with oil products, debris, and mines. The devastation of biodiversity and ecosystems across Ukraine has been immeasurable, long-lasting and its consequences stretch beyond national borders. In Ecocide in Ukraine, Ukrainian researcher Darya Tsymbalyuk offers an intimate portrait of her beloved homeland against the backdrop of Russia’s war and ecocide.

Register here

About the participants:

Darya Tsymbalyuk is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Slavic Languages and Literatures, and the Committee on Environment, Geography, and Urbanization (CEGU) at the University of Chicago. Her academic papers and public essays explore narratives about environments, multispecies worlds, displacement, embodied knowledge, and entangled colonial histories of Ukraine. Her writing has appeared on the BBC’s Future Planet and open Democracy websites, among many other publications. In addition to her research and writing, Darya also works with images through drawing, painting, collage, and video essays.

Epp Annus is an associate professor at Tallinn University; she also lectures at Ohio State University (USA). Her interests include Baltic cultures and societies, Russian imperialism/colonialism, decoloniality, and environmental studies. Her recent and forthcoming books include Environment and Society in Soviet Estonia, 1960-1990 (Cambridge UP, forthcoming 2025) and Soviet Postcolonial Studies: A View from the Western Borderlands (Routledge, 2018). She has published two novels, some poetry and several children’s books. We are proud to note that in her free time, Epp happens to also be a council member of the Estonian American National Council.

This event is organized by Tallinn University, Institute of Humanities, the project PRG2592 “Memory and Environment: The Intersection of Fast and Slow Violence in Transnational European Literatures” and the project TF2324 “Exploring Patterns of Subject-Formation in Estonian Culture, 1956-1998”.

See less

Virtual discussion: The Ukraine Question and Baltic Security
2025-04-13 14:00 - 15:00 | Online via Zoom
The Ukraine Question and Baltic Security: What’s next for Ukraine—and why should Baltic Americans care?

Join two Washington-based experts for a timely conversation on Ukraine’s future, its ties to the Baltic countries, and how our diaspora can influence U.S. policy on issues that matter to the Baltic region.Featuring:• Michael Kimmage – Historian, director of the Kennan Institute, and author of Collisions: The War in Ukraine and the Origins of the New Global Instability (Oxford University Press, 2024).• Karl Altau – Managing director of the Joint Baltic American National Committee (JBANC), coordinating Baltic advocacy in Washington since 1961. JBANC is supported by the Lithuanian American Council, Estonian American Council, and American Latvian Association.Program will be in English and is open to all.

Register here

Virtual discussion "Baltic Spotlight: Disinformation as a Challenge to Western Democracies"
2025-04-16 20:00 - 21:00 | Online
Register here

The Joint Baltic American National Committee (JBANC) presents the latest in its virtual discussion series Baltic Spotlight on Wednesday, April 16. Featuring guest Marcus Kolga, the founder and director of DisinfoWatch, the discussion will be focused on the disinformation war being waged by Russia and the challenges it brings for Western countries to preserve its democracies.

Marcus Kolga is a documentary filmmaker, journalist, human rights activist, and a leading Canadian analyst of foreign disinformation and influence operations. He frequently writes and comments on Russian and Central and Eastern European issues and disinformation in Canadian and international media. His articles have been published by The Globe and Mail, The Toronto Star, The National Post, Macleans, the Atlantic Council, The European Observer, and other European publications.

Kolga led the Canadian civil society campaign for Magnitsky human rights sanctions legislation and has actively led and contributed to similar efforts in Estonia, Latvia, Sweden, and Australia.

He has been sanctioned by both the Kremlin and China for his efforts to promote democracy and combat disinformation.

The Joint Baltic American National Committee, Inc.

Established in 1961, JBANC has represented the Baltic-American communities and its three parent organizations, the American Latvian Association, the Estonian American National Council, and the Lithuanian American Council. JBANC’s goal has been to help coordinate their activities in Washington, DC with the U.S. Congress and administration and its related agencies in conjunction with issues related to Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. We have taken great pride in over half a century in joint Baltic cooperation and in being able to help coordinate and consolidate our common interests.

Eesti Skautide ja Gaidide Malevad USAs, Jüripäeva nädalalõpulaager
2025-04-26 00:00 - 23:59 | Järvemetsa campgrounds, Jackson, New Jersey
Jüripäev (St George´s Day) is the most important day of the Scouting calendar. It is the day for promotions and merit awards, as well as the day to give the scout oath or girl guide promise.

Estonian scouts and guides in USA plan to convene on Staurday for weekend activities, followed by a ceremony and lunch on Sunday.

Mother's Day Celebration and Spring Concert (L.A.)
2025-05-04 17:00 - 20:00 | Los Angeles Eesti Maja / Los Angeles Estonian House, 1306 West 24th Street, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, 90007
A joint celebration of Mother’s Day hosted by the Estonian School, the Los Angeles Estonian congregation, the mixed choir and the kannel ensemble Inglikeeled at the Estonian House. Performances by the Estonian School students, the mixed choir, Inglikeeled and presentations by the Estonian School and members of the congregation. Snacks and coffee will be served after the event.

Täienduskooli, Eesti koguduse, segakoori ja kandleansambli Inglikeeled ühine Emadepäeva tähistamine Eesti Majas. Kavas täienduskooli laste, segakoori ja Inglikeelte esinemised ning täienduskooli ja koguduse liikmete päevakohased ettekanded. Järgneb kohvilaud.

Virtual Baltic Advocacy Days 2025
2025-05-07 00:00 - 2025-05-09 23:59 | Online
Missed Baltic Advocacy Days in Washington, DC? Here’s another opportunity to stand for Baltic security:

Register for Virtual Baltic Advocacy Days to meet with your Congressional office over video call.

The Joint Baltic American National Committee invites Baltic Americans and friends of the Baltics to participate in virtual advocacy days from May 7-9 and May 12-15. Your voice makes a difference!

This year we will advocate for funding the Baltic Security Initiative, supporting our friends in Ukraine, and highlighting the strength of the U.S.-Baltic relationship.

Baltic Virtual Advocacy Days will consist of 15–20 minute video call meetings with your Congressional offices. Each participant will have 2–3 meetings, which will take place on May 7–9 and May 12–15. Participants can indicate their availability on the registration form. (Please only register if you were unable to attend the in-person Advocacy Days.)

All participants will also be invited to a virtual briefing ahead of Baltic Advocacy Days. No experience is required—briefing materials and training will be provided. We hope you’ll join us!

Register here

Your voice makes a big difference! Support Estonian security!

San Francisco Arts Festival Premiers Estonian Finnish Artist Anneli Kanninen
2025-05-10 03:00 - 2025-05-12 02:59 | The Marsh Studio, 1062 Valencia St, SF, CA 94110, San Francisco, California, 94110, United States
Date(s) & Time(s):Sat May 10, 2:30pm, Sun May 11, 6:00pmDuration: 30 minsShared bill with: Algiin total duration 70 mins

Production Details

HOMEingHOMEing is a personal exploration of what it means to grow roots in a new place. Arriving in a new country, culture and a language, how does one start building home, while remembering what has been left behind? Through the lenses of different languages and contemporary dance, this work-in-progress performance researches the sensory and cultural experiences of home, connection, and how generations respond to uprooting.

“With this performance, I want to honor all the mothers who didn’t have the chance to get a sufficient education and worked their entire lives to put their children through school so that they could get more opportunities in life.”

In FinnishHOMEing on tutkimus kodista ja kuulumisen tunteesta eri kielten ja nykytanssin kautta esitettynä. Miten rakentaa uusi koti ja mitä jää taakse, kun muuttaa uuteen maahan ja kulttuuriin?

”Tämän teoksen kautta haluan kunnioittaa kaikkia niitä äitejä, jotka eivät saaneet tilaisuutta riittävään koulutukseen, ja työskentelivät koko elämänsä, jotta seuraava sukupolvi saisi enemmän tilaisuuksia elämässä.”

In EstonianHOMEing on kodu ja kuuluvustunde uurimise lavastus läbi erinevate keelte ja moderntantsu prisma. Kuidas alustada uue kodu rajamist saabudes teise riiki, keele ja kultuurilise keskkonda?

“Selle lavastusega tahan austada kõiki emasid, kellel ei olnud võimalust omandada piisavat haridust ja kes töötasid terve elu selle nimel, et oma lapsed koolis käiksid, et järgmine põlvkond saaks elus rohkem võimalusi.”

Artist BiographiesAnneli KanninenAnneli is a multidisciplinary artist working in the intersections of dance, theater and languages with a focus on themes of home and belonging. Anneli’s career was formed in the underground street and house dance culture, mainly in voguing and the ballroom community, with mentors like Archie Burnett, Benny Ninja and Javier Ninja. Over the past 15 years, Anneli has performed in Scandinavia and Europe working with artists and performers in music, fashion and TV industries, teaching master classes and collaborating with award-winning choreographers and arts institutions. She’s worked with choreographer Trajal Harrel (US) at ImPulsTanz in Vienna, voguing icon Jose Xtravaganza (US) in London and artist Brian Lobel (US/UK) for Zodiak – Centre for New Dance in Helsinki. Anneli’s work has been supported by the Ministry of Culture and Education in Finland, and an expert organization Circus & Dance Info Finland. Anneli was born in Estonia, lived and worked in Finland, and is now based in the Bay Area. They are looking forward to connecting with the rich and vibrant Bay Area artist community.

Ticket Information

Early Bird: $20, Advance: $25, Door: $28For the best deals, see multiple shows with a discount Festival Pass.TICKETSFESTIVAL PASS

Tickets/Festival Pass

Artist Information

Written & Performed by: Anneli Kanninen

Artist Website

Visit Artist Website

Virtual Baltic Advocaccy Days
2025-05-12 00:00 - 2025-05-15 23:59 | Online
issed Baltic Advocacy Days in Washington, DC? Here’s another opportunity to stand for Baltic security:

Register for Virtual Baltic Advocacy Days to meet with your Congressional office over video call.

The Joint Baltic American National Committee invites Baltic Americans and friends of the Baltics to participate in virtual advocacy days from May 7-9 and May 12-15. Your voice makes a difference!

This year we will advocate for funding the Baltic Security Initiative, supporting our friends in Ukraine, and highlighting the strength of the U.S.-Baltic relationship.

Baltic Virtual Advocacy Days will consist of 15–20 minute video call meetings with your Congressional offices. Each participant will have 2–3 meetings, which will take place on May 7–9 and May 12–15. Participants can indicate their availability on the registration form. (Please only register if you were unable to attend the in-person Advocacy Days.)

All participants will also be invited to a virtual briefing ahead of Baltic Advocacy Days. No experience is required—briefing materials and training will be provided. We hope you’ll join us!

Register here

Your voice makes a big difference! Support Estonian security!

Virtual Seminar. "Science without Borders: The Estonian Scientific Diaspora in the USA"
2025-05-14 12:00 | Online
The Estonian Embassy in the US and the Estonian Research Council cordial invite you to attend their upcoming virtual seminar, which brings together scientists, academic staff and university students with Estonian heritage who currently live in the US and are interested in building and/or maintaining a connection with Estonia.

The seminar will also be the virtual launch of the Estonian-American Network of Science (EANS) which aims to map, connect and inspire the Estonian scientific diaspora in the US. The event will promote transatlantic networking and exchange of information with the broader goal to foster cooperation, interdisciplinary research and innovation.

The discussion will begin with opening words from the Estonian Embassy and the Estonian Research Council. This will be followed by a virtual panel, moderated by Dr Anna-Maria Osula, Estonian Embassy in the US.

Our panelists:

· Dr Liisi Esse, University of Stanford

· Dr Tiit Lukk, University of Illinois

· Dr Kaur Kullman, University of Maryland

· Prof Tarmo Soomere, Tallinn University of Technology, former President of the Estonian Academy of Science

The webinar takes place on Wednesday 14th of May 2025 at 9AM West Coast / 12PM East Coast / 7PM Tallinn. The event will be held in English and will be recorded.

Register here

You will receive the connection details after registration. Please also share this invitation with other interested members of the Estonian science community in the US!

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Picnic @ the Chicago Estonian House
2025-05-18 14:00 | Chicago Eesti Maja / Chicago Estonian House, 14700 Estonian Ln, Riverwoods,, Illinois, 60015-3553
All are welcome to this picnic, hosted by the Chicago Estonian school parents and teachers. On the menu: grilled bratwurst, salads, and delicious picnice foods. Homemade cakes and for dessert. Join us for a fun and relaxed day!

All are welcome!

Pühapäeval 18 mail. Chicago Eesti kooli lastevanemate ja õpetajate poolt korraldatud piknik kell 13.00.Menüüs grillvorstid,salatid ja kõike muud paremat. Magustoiduks kodused koogid ja

Kõik on teretulnud!

THE WASHINGTON BLUE HEPATICA RUN 2025: Anname Au!
2025-05-31 11:30 - 17:00 | 1901A Jefferson Pike, Knoxville, Maryland 21758, 1901A Jefferson Pike, Knoxville, Maryland, 21758, United States
You are invited to salute and run to support the Estonian troops at

THE WASHINGTON BLUE HEPATICA RUN 2025

The Two-Mile Blue Hepatica run/Sinilillejooks has become a tradition of “Let us Salute!” campaign and in 2025 takes place across Estonia; in Copenhagen, Denmark; Brussels, Belgium; and for the eighth time also in Washington, DC.

The registration fees for the “Let us Salute!” campaign are used to purchase mobility aids and other rehabilitation equipment for the Estonian wounded troops.

The run is open to everyone interested. This is a family event.Participants are welcome to run/walk. The path is scooter, stroller friendly.The parking is available at the parking lot nearby.Park amenities: pavilions, playground, dog park, restrooms.

10:30 am: Bib pickup begins11:30 am: Race starts

2-Mile Run

$11.60incl. $1.60 Fee 11:30AM EDT–12:30PM EDT

Registration ends May 31, 2025 at 11:45am EDT

Register here

The forecast calls for clouds, and warm temps at 69 F, possibly a little rain (60%).Please come around 10:30, so you will have time to get your number as a runner.

If you would like to get a Blue Hepatica pin on Saturday, then please join us on Saturday and purchase the pin online (only 20 available). People who will attend the event on Saturday and have purchased the pin online (or by cash on Saturday) will have the priority to claim the pin.

After the run, join us for a picnic, followed by the annual meeting for the Washington Estonian Society follows. WES will provide plates, forks, water and cups. Feel free to bring your favorite snacks, salads or cakes for sharing!

If you would like to volunteer at the event to make it a wonderful celebration or become part of our Board, please let us know at info@washingtonestoniansociety.org.

Baltic Picnic 2025 - San Francisco Bay area
2025-06-01 12:00 - 16:00 | Huddart Park, 1100 Kings Mountain Rd, Woodside, California, 94062, United States
Join us for a potluck lunch, and an afternoon of casual sports and fun with friends and family.

This year the Bay Area Baltic Picnic moves to Huddart Park in Woodside to take advantage of the park’s wonderful amenities, including hiking trails!

Where: Huddart Park, Woodside at Zwierlein Picnic Area (see location on the map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/nFEK26WZBbtp1E8b9)

When: Sunday, June 1, 12:00 – 4:00 (registration opens at 11:30)

Food: Roast pig and beer are provided by the organizers! All guests, please bring side dishes to share (to serve 8-10), and anything extra to add to the grill or to drink. Please note that the park only allows beer and wine, no hard alcohol.

Dogs: Dogs are not allowed at this park site.

New this year! Huddart Park is a beautiful, natural location with miles of scenic hiking trails in the redwoods! Sign up for a self-guided morning hike before the event, and let’s explore this corner of the world together! https://forms.gle/B6FjkaZ6CdHbvJ747

Ways to help: The picnic is run by volunteers! Sign up to help during the day (https://www.signupgenius.com/…/20F054CAAA72BA2F49… ) – registration table, help manage the potluck table and sports activities, and clean up! We need you to make this event happen.

JBANC Baltic Spotlight. "Reboolting a Nation. Estonia's Rise as a Tech Powerhouse"
2025-06-04 20:00 - 21:00 | Kentucky
The Joint Baltic American National Committee (JBANC) hosts its latest Baltic Spotlight on June 4 at 8:00 PM ET, featuring Joel Burke, a technologist, author, and former e-government advisor.

Register here

The conversation will explore Estonia’s digital transformation—from a post-Soviet state to a world leader in e-government and startup innovation. We’ll discuss Estonia’s pioneering use of artificial intelligence in governance, digital identity systems, and what other nations can learn from its success.

Joel Burke is a Georgetown University alumnus based in Washington, D.C., with experience working on four continents and advising both startups and governments. He previously led a team for the Republic of Estonia’s groundbreaking e-Residency program and has advised members of the U.S. Congress on technology and AI policy.

Joel’s book, Rebooting a Nation: The Incredible Rise of Estonia, E-Government and the Startup Revolution, offers an insider’s perspective on Estonia’s rapid ascent as a digital powerhouse. From the rise of companies like Wise and Bolt to a state where 99% of government services are online, the book explores the bold reforms, technologies, and mindset that reshaped an entire nation.

Join us for a thoughtful look at how one nation leveraged innovation to modernize governance and empower its citizens!

Global Estonian Virtual Forum
2025-06-05 09:00 | Kentucky
The Estonian Ministry of Foreign Affairs invites Estonians around the world to its latest virtual forum. There is much in store, join us!

This summer, Estonia will host both the Song and Dance Celebration and the XIII Global Estonian Days ESTO 2025. Additionally, we will celebrate the 90th birthday of Arvo Pärt and the 500th anniversary of the first Estonian-language book. It’s been a long time since we’ve had such a remarkable year!

This time, the virtual forum will focus on everything that creates and preserves Estonian cultural identity—heritage, music, nature, and literature. The forum will be broadcast from the Arvo Pärt Centre.

The forum will be translated into English.

Register here

Read more: Global Estonian | Virtual forum for Global Estonians: June 5 2025

NB! Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1Yencc6Yd6/

Long Islandi Jaanipäev ja Spordipäev - Midsummer Celebration & Sports Day
2025-06-06 00:00 - 2025-06-08 23:59 | Long Island Estonian House, 22 Middle Island Blvd.,, Middle Island, New York, 11953
Join in the summer fun, welcome the summer solstice: Estonian songs, dancing, sports, live music, chlildren´s programs and, of course, the Midsummer bonfire – jaanituli!

Special guest performance by Estonian musician NOËP (alternative-pop artist)!

NOËP is the first ever Estonian artist to put on a stadium show. The stadium sold a record+breaking 14,000 tickets in 2023. Besides enchanting audiences at home in Estonia, NOËP has played to audiences in Dubai, Beirut, Paris (Musée d’Orsay), Brighton (The Great Escape). He has sold-out three headline shows in London. He currently has over 90 million streams on Spotify and has won 6 Estonian Music Awards.

Fun fact: NOËP recently started his own gin business venture “Sünk.” Buy your tickets to Jaanipäev now: The first 50 to purchase tickets will be entered into the June 7th raffle for a bottle of Sünk gin.

Read more (Estonian)

Read more (English)

Jaaniõhtu / Midsummer Celebration - Chicago
2025-06-14 14:00 | Chicago Estonian House, 14700 Estonian Ln, IL 60015 United State, Riverwoods, Illinois, 60015, United States
The Chicago Estonian House welcomes you!

The Estonian House’s grounds will be open for our traditional Estonian mid-summer celebration. Park will open at 2:00 pm. We will have a grill-bar (beginning at 4 pm), Estonian beer, games and bonfire. “Eesti Band” from Estonia will perform with the music. Admission is $25 per person (children under 16 years of age, admitted free). First 100 paid admissions will receive a Eesti Maja logoed string backpack.

Chicago Eesti Maja kutsub! Tulge tähistame meiega, traditsiooniline Jaanipidu ootab ees! Park avatakse kell 14.00. Grillbaar avatakse kell 16, Eesti õlu, mängud ja lõke. Esinevad muusikaga “Eesti Band” Eestist. Sissepääs on 25 dollarit inimese pealt (alla 16-aastased lapsed, tasuta). Esimesed 100 tasutud piletit saavad Eesti Maja logoga nöörist seljakoti.

Jaaniõhtu / Midsummer Celebration - Lakewood, NJ
2025-06-14 16:00 | Lakewood Eesti Maja / Lakewood Estonian House, 4 Cross Street, Jackson, New Jersey, 08527
The Lakewod Estonia Association invites you to their annual Midsummer celebration! Entertainment and atmsophere provided by RAHVAMUUSIKUD TRIO KOLM from Estonia!

Join us for traditional meals and cold drinks.

Folk games, dancing, singing, raffle.

Vendors: Amest Esto Food and Estomex Jewelry!

Bring a friend and enjoy the day!

Kutsume kõiki Lakewoodi Eesti Majja tähistama Võidupüha ja Jaaniõhtut , laupäeval , 14 juunil, 2025, kell 4 pl.Esinevad RAHVAMUUSIKUD TRIO KOLM EestistPakume Jaanisööki – ja jookiRahvamängud, tantsud,ühislaulud , loteriiMüüjad – Amest Esto Food ja Estomex JewelryVõta sõber kaasa ja tule naudi koos meiega !

Jaanipäev/Midsummer Celebration: Seattle
2025-06-14 17:30 | Golden Gardens
The Seattle Estonian Society invites you to join them for a Midsuumer Celebration!

Let’s get together and celebrate Midsummer at Golden Gardens! Since we can’t reserve fire pits, we’ll have to find a spot when we arrive. But don’t worry — you should be able to find a group of Estonians without much trouble!

What to bring:Chairs or blankets to sit onYour favorite Jaanipäeva dish to shareFlowers to make wreaths

There’s a playground for kids to enjoy, and we’ll have fun with games like Molky, soccer, and volleyball. Feel free to bring any other summer games you love! And if you play a musical instrument, bring it along — this is the perfect chance for a great audience!

We look forward to seeing you there!

——————–

Tuleme kokku ja tähistame Jaanipäeva Golden Gardensis! Kuna lõkkeplatse ei saa ette broneerida, peame kohapeal vaatama, kus oma koha leiame. Aga ära muretse – eestlaste grupi leidmine ei tohiks olla keeruline!

Mida kaasa võtta:Toolid või tekid istumiseksSinu Jaanipäeva lemmiktoit jagamiseksLilled, et pärga teha

Lastel on mänguväljak, kus ringi joosta. Mängime Molkyt, jalgpalli, võrkpalli. Võta kaasa ka suve mänge, mida armastad! Kui sul on muusikariist, siis too see kaasa – meil on suurepärane publik!

Ootame teid kõiki!

Midsummer & Victory Day Celebration - Connecticut
2025-06-21 15:00 | Connecticut Estonian Grounds — Connecticuti Eesti Maa, 25 Times Farm Road, Andover, Connecticut (USA), 06232
The Connecticut Estonian Society opens up the CT Estonian Grounds to welcome family & friends, new and old, near and far, to celebrate the summer solstice and Estonia’s Victory Day! CES is honoured to host Estonian Consul Tarmo Punnik, who will be available for consular services from 3 – 6 pm. Rain date: June 22. Look at the CES Facebook page for announcements.

Join us to enjoy folkduo Valev Laube (violin) and Charlie Rauh (guitar), special guest speaker Consul Tarmo Punnik, volleyball and other activities, grilling and picnic buffet, singing and dancing around the fire!

It is recommend you bring a campchair or blanket, if you want to sit directly fire-side (benches an dpicnic tables are also available on site), and don´t forget a towel if you´d like to dip into the Hop River. A light layer might be handy for evening. BYOB. Tenting is available.

NB! Do you want to apply for/ renew your Estonian passport or are you in need of other consular services? Good news!

It is an honor at this event to welcome a consular mission from the Embassy of the Republic of Estonia. Consul Tarmo Punnik will provide consular services from 3 pm to 6 pm. Click here for related information about what documents you might need to bring along. Tip: Even if your passport is not in need of renewal, this is a conveneient opportunity to update your “e-fingerprint” – you can complete the other tasks online when it becomes necessary. The e-fingerprint is valid for 5 years.

Website
