People gathered in towns across Estonia on New Year’s Eve, to say goodbye to 2025 and hello to 2026.
In the capital, crowds gathered on Tallinn’s Vabaduse väljak (Freedom Square) to watch a lightshow and a concert.
Before the official countdown to 2026 began, there were performances by Synne Valtri Band, 5MIINUST, and Terminaator.
As in previous years, the city did not organise a fireworks show – although other residents still released the illuminations over the capital – but a light show thrilled the crowds, moving in sync with the music.
Tartu welcomes 2026
Tartu saw in the new year with a free live concert on Vabaduse puiestee featuring music from Raul Ojamaa and Jon Hazel.
PPA kept busy in Kuressaare
Meanwhile in Kuressaare, capital of Saaremaa, 2026 was seen in at the town’s central square, accompanied by the lively sounds of dance music.
The local government has picked music instead of fireworks on New Year’s Eve for several years now, though this did not stop plenty of local residents from illuminating the skies over Kuressaare with fireworks of their own.
The evening was as busy for the Police and Border Guard Board (PPA) as it was in the rest of the country.
“The common denominator that caused challenges for the police was alcohol and its abuse. Heavy alcohol consumption altered people’s behavior, leading to disturbances of public order and violent conflicts that required police intervention,” Kuressaare PAA station field commander Rünno Kurm said.
Traffic remained relatively calm, and there were no serious traffic accidents.
Editor’s Note: This article was updated to include a gallery of Kuressaare’s New Year’s celebrations.
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