Tallinn’s Old Town Days Start Next Week

Text Stewart Johnson
Photos Tallinn’s Old Town Days / Vahur Lõhmus

Tallinn’s Old Town Days, or Vanalinna päevad, will once again transform the medieval centre of Tallinn into a giant open-air cultural stage from 5–7 June. This year’s festival focuses especially on theatre and performing arts, with the Old Town itself becoming part of the performance venue. Streets, courtyards, parks, balconies, and historic buildings will host hundreds of events over three days, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the UNESCO-listed district.

The programme includes around 300 events aimed at visitors of all ages. Concerts, street theatre, dance performances, public art, workshops and guided tours will take place across multiple stages and venues throughout the Old Town. Organisers are placing particular emphasis on several interactive performances, and activities that encourage audience participation, as opposed to just standing and watching.

One of the main highlights will be the festival’s opening performance, “Reval in Search of a Troubadour”, taking place in Toompark on the evening of 5 June. “Reval” is the old name for Tallinn. Throughout the weekend, visitors can also enjoy balcony concerts and courtyard performances in locations that are normally closed to the public. Historic buildings such as the Rüütelkond Building, Stenbock House and various embassy residences will open their doors for musical performances and cultural events.

Music will play a major role in the festival. Artists and groups performing during the event include An-Marlen, säm, Lonitseera, EiK, Küberünnak & Karmo, Anna Kaneelina and the Finnish Junior All Star Big Band, alongside ensembles from Tallinn’s music schools and academies. Several stages around the Old Town, including the traditional Harju Street stage, will host concerts throughout the weekend.

Families and children are also strongly encouraged to participate. Puppet theatre performances, children’s activity areas, and workshops will take place in parks and squares around the Old Town. Visitors will be able to meet popular Estonian children’s characters such as Lotte and Sipsik, while younger guests can take part in games, creative workshops, and interactive performances.

In addition to the organised programme, much of the appeal of Tallinn’s Old Town Days comes from the atmosphere itself. The streets fill with performers, musicians, food stalls and visitors, while cafés and courtyards spill out into public spaces. The festival is designed not only as a historical celebration, but also as an immersive experience celebrating the city’s medieval history.

The complete programme is available in English here.

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Art celebration Dance Events in Tallinn History Old Town Days Tallinn Vanalinna päevad