February in Estonia is undoubtedly a harsh month. The thermometer rarely climbs above -5 to -6°C, with some days plunging to -10°C or even lower. The brisk sea wind only intensifies the perception of cold.
Nevertheless, a February vacation in Estonia offers a unique and captivating experience. Modernity seamlessly blends with longstanding traditions, intertwining Christian and pagan customs, creating a vibrant and eclectic tapestry of Shrovetide festivities.
In February, you can enjoy budget-friendly tours to Estonia without worrying about overspending. A week-long vacation with accommodation in a comfortable hotel will cost you only 270-350 EUR.
Shrovetide, celebrated by Estonians, falls on the Tuesday of the seventh week before Catholic Easter. In 2016, this festive period was on February 9, but the celebrations are not confined to this church-set date. You can book tours to Estonia in February at your convenience.
During weekends, ethnographic parks come alive with vibrant theatrical performances inspired by ancient rituals. City streets bustle with handcrafted souvenirs, and restaurants and cafes serve hearty Shrovetide menus throughout the month. February 2 also marks Candlemas Day, a traditional women's festival celebrated in villages long before Clara Zetkin's Women's Day.
For classical music enthusiasts, the second week of February hosts the Ceciliana festival in Tallinn. This event promotes the musical heritage of the Middle Ages, Renaissance, and Baroque.
If you're planning ski tours to Estonia in winter, don't miss the Bath Marathon in Otepää on February 6. In this relay race, participants aim to visit as many baths and saunas as possible, spending a quarter of an hour in each steam room. Meanwhile, spectators can enjoy discounted or free steam sessions. If you happen to be in Prichudye during your vacation, make sure to attend the Finnish sleigh festival in the Old Believer village of Kolkja for an exhilarating ride!
Cross-country skiers can showcase their skills in weekly events like the Estoloret amateur ski marathon. The first Sunday of the month features the Tamsalu-Neeruti scenic forest route, followed by the Alutaguse Adventure Park on the second weekend. The Tartu to Võru County ski race kicks off on the third Sunday of February, and the Tallinn Marathon takes the spotlight on the last weekend of the month, attracting amateur skiers from all around.
For amateur anglers, an exciting lottery awaits on the frozen shores of a lake at the Viljandi Fish Festival on February 27. The winner is the one who manages to fish out the most marked fish from the ice hole, with one of them carrying a cash prize of 5000 EUR. If the elusive "goldfish" remains uncaught, the prize money will be divided among participants who catch lower-ranked prize fish.
February is a month filled with enthusiasm, even in professional sports. The Miss Valentine international rhythmic gymnastics tournament adds a touch of beauty and youth to everyday life in Tartu. Snowboarding enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the Estonian Slopestyle Open in Kiviõli, where competitors take on challenging rails, boxes, and big air jumps in an intense program.
As part of the motorcycle and ATV exhibition, the Tallinn Motor Show, the final of the European Snowmobile Cross Championship will be held on the last weekend of the month in front of the Saku Suurhal Concert Hall square. The competition among Europe's top riders promises high adrenaline and excitement for all spectators.
The Pärnu Ice Festival is another reason to choose Estonia for your winter vacation in February. This extravaganza combines music, dance, and sports, energizing audiences year-round. Freestyle teams push the limits of what's possible with their daring demonstrations.
Lastly, on February 24th, cities across Estonia come alive with celebrations for Independence Day, featuring fun and festivities along with appearances by Estonian showbiz stars on the streets.
For the latest prices on Estonia in February, be sure to check out tripmydream. They'll help you avoid overpaying for your trip and take advantage of tour operator and airline marketing promotions.
