Üleminevaid

**Üleminevaid** refers to a traditional Estonian folk custom involving the symbolic "overtaking" or "passing over" of a person, object, or concept in various cultural and seasonal rituals. The term originates from the Estonian verb *üleminema*, meaning "to pass over" or "to surpass," and is often associated with transitional periods such as the end of winter, the beginning of spring, or significant life events like weddings or funerals.

One of the most well-known examples of üleminevaid is the **Üleminevaid** ritual performed during the Estonian spring festival of **Vappu** (May Day). In this tradition, a person, often a child or a designated figure, is "passed over" by the community in a playful or symbolic manner, representing the transition from winter to spring. The ritual may involve the person being lifted, carried, or led through a procession while others chant or sing, marking the end of one cycle and the beginning of another.

Üleminevaid also appears in other Estonian customs, such as **Jaanipäev** (Midsummer) celebrations, where certain objects, like a decorated pole or a symbolic figure, are "passed over" to ensure fertility and prosperity. In some rural traditions, the practice was linked to agricultural rituals, where the act of passing over was believed to ward off evil spirits or ensure a good harvest.

The concept of üleminevaid reflects broader folk beliefs in the power of symbolic transitions to influence natural and social harmony. While modern interpretations may differ from historical practices, the tradition remains a cultural touchstone, preserving elements of Estonian folklore and seasonal observance. Today, üleminevaid is often celebrated in a simplified or adapted form, particularly during festivals and community gatherings.