Join Estonian-Canadian sisters Kaili and Kaarin—moms of young kids and co-founders of Sõnad: Esto Words, a learning resource company—as they share creative ideas and heartfelt reflections on staying connected to their roots.
In a world where traditions risk fading, they explore meaningful ways to keep the Estonian spirit thriving. Whether you’re Estonian by heritage, reconnecting with your roots, or discovering the culture through family or curiosity, their insights inspire fresh ways to celebrate and cultivate a sense of pride and belonging.
For those of us in the diaspora, Laulupidu (Estonia’s Song Festival) isn’t just a cultural event – it’s a return to the hive.
One of our favourite (and most beloved) songs sung at Laulupidu is “Ta lendab mesipuu poole.” Translated to “He Flies to the Beehive.” The lyrics go:
Hing, oh hing, sa raskel a’al –
kuis õhkad isamaa poole;
kas kodu sa, kas võõral maal –
kuis ihkad isamaa poole!
Soul, oh soul, when the times are hard –
How you desire to be in your homeland;
whether you’re home or in a foreign land –
you yearn for your homeland!
The beehive image resonates deeply for those of us who were raised outside of Estonia. In many ways, we’ve been flying “home” through tradition, language, and memory – and now, literally, by returning to the homeland.
Laulupidu is especially meaningful because even under Soviet rule, people kept singing – with perseverance, patience, and purpose. It was a peaceful act of resistance and a declaration of identity.
Where else in the world does a tiny country bring together over 100,000 people to sing in harmony under the open sky? In our opinion, it might just be the most eriline (special) place on earth.
Here’s what we’ve learned from attending over the years:
1. Expect tears – even if you don’t understand the words.
That’s part of the beauty. The harmonies strike something ancient. Kaili’s husband doesn’t speak Estonian, but he cries every time. Try explaining some of the song meanings to your kids beforehand – it helps them understand why the crowd gets emotional, and why it matters.
2. Pärjad (Flower Crowns) are essential.
They’re usually made by hand before the festival and worn all day long. Kids love them – and let’s be honest, so do we. They add a little midsummer magic to the whole experience.
3. Don’t skip the parade.
The procession to the song grounds is a festival highlight, especially for kids. Koorid (choirs) from across Estonia and around the world march proudly in folk costumes while the crowd cheers them on. It’s vibrant, joyful, and full of national pride.
4. Pack a parent hack: quiet activities with cultural flair.
This summer, we’ll be bringing our own books and journals – including Suvi: Estonian Summer and R is for Raamat: My Estonian Alphabet Book. They help our kids spot familiar words around them – like rand (beach), mäng (game) and käsitöö (handicraft) – in real time.
We also swear by Suvi: Estonian Summer Coloring Adventures. Just bring a pencil case with markers or pencil crayons and you’ll have an instant connection at any café, on the grass, or even at the song grounds – plus a chance to talk about keywords and traditions together.
5. You may even spot a celebrity.
Estonia may be small, but Laulupidu draws people from all over – including some familiar faces. Kaili once had a full-circle diaspora moment when Carmen Kass – yes, the Estonian supermodel – walked right past her. (To be clear: Kaili did many Estonian school projects on her growing up… and had her face as her Facebook profile picture for years. No shame.) It was surreal, hilarious, and totally maagiline (magical). You never know who you’ll see.
6. Bring (or buy) small Estonian flags.
They’re easy to find near the grounds – or pack your own. Kids love waving them, and when you see a sea of sinine, must ja valge (blue, black and white) sweep through the crowd at dusk, it’s hard not to feel a swell of pride and awe. It’s unity you can see. It stays with you.
7. Talk to strangers. Really.
Ask where they’re from. What brought them here. Everyone at Laulupidu has a story. It’s one of the few places where small talk often turns into something meaningful.
Our fun fact? We’re especially excited about KESKUS, the new International Estonian Centre being built in Toronto – a future second home for everyone with ties to Estonia, no matter where you live.
8. Head out before overtired hits.
Estonian summer nights can stretch late – and cool down fast. Pack layers, maybe a tekk (blanket), and be okay with calling it a night early if your little ones are fading. We’ve learned (the hard way) that overtired kids and travel don’t mix well. Estonian TV captures everything so beautifully, so you can always watch what you may have missed and still have all the same feelings.
9. Tell your kids about the Singing Revolution.
Make sure they know: these songs once helped Estonia win back its freedom. In the late 1980s, during the Soviet occupation, thousands of people gathered to sing patriotic songs in peaceful defiance – sometimes for days. The songs didn’t stop. The people didn’t stop. And eventually, the regime did.
10. Dress in layers – and expect costume envy.
Rahvariided (folk costumes) are everywhere – and if your kids see someone in full dress and wish they had one too, you’re not alone. Some families pack partial outfits or accessories (like a sash, vest, or ribbon skirt) to get into the spirit without going full wool-on-wool.
You can find our books on Amazon and other online retailers – created for kids who live between cultures and carry two hearts, just like ours do.
