Tartu Buzz—Old Town Festival

Text Stewart Johnson
Photo Mana Kaasik, Maanus Kullamaa, City of Tartu

One of Tartu’s most coveted events begins later this week as the Old Town will come to life on a daily basis with live music, a fair, and much more. Starting with the Open Old Town Day on 26 July, Rüütli Street will be filled with vendors selling handicrafts, food, clothing, and other diverse items, while entertainment will be on a stage set up by St John’s Church.

This first day will also feature guided tours of St John’s Church, inviting visitors to enjoy a cup of coffee, and even climb the church spire to enjoy the best view of Tartu’s Old Town. There will also be guided tours available of Tartu’s athletic facilities and trails, as well as some Olympic history. Antonius Courtyard will also have several fun activities and performances throughout the day. A concert by Daniel Levi will begin at 19:00.

The rest of the two-week Old Town celebration will feature similar activities and events, with each day presenting something new. This is a great and relaxed event for the whole family.

Tartu has been called many names in its history, such as Dorpat, Derpt, and Jürjev. Its first permanent settlement was in the 5th century CE, and it was a major trading city in the Hanseatic League due to its location on the Emajõgi River. It was the religious seat of the old country known as Livonia, and has several medieval ruins in the Old Town.

Today, Tartu is known as the intellectual capital of Estonia, as the country’s main university is located there. The city’s transformation over the last 35 years is nothing short of miraculous, and this is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Estonia for the first, second, or even tenth time.

The complete programme for Tartu Buzz is available here. Tartu is easily accessible by car, bus, train, plane, bicycle, on foot, and even by boat.

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