Jõuluperiood

Jõuluperiood, also known as the Christmas season, is a significant cultural and religious observance primarily celebrated in Estonia. It encompasses the period leading up to, during, and immediately following Christmas Day. The exact start and end dates can vary in popular understanding, but it traditionally begins around Advent and extends through Epiphany (Kolmekuningapäev) on January 6th.

The core of the jõuluperiood is the celebration of Christmas itself, which falls on December 25th. This is a time for families to gather, share meals, exchange gifts, and reflect on the year. Many traditions are associated with this period, including decorating Christmas trees, singing carols, and attending religious services. The period is characterized by a festive atmosphere, with special foods like verivorst (blood sausage) and kringel often featured.

Leading up to Christmas, Advent is observed, with many households lighting candles in an Advent wreath each Sunday. The anticipation builds towards Christmas Eve (Jõululaupäev), which is often the main day of celebration for many Estonian families, featuring a traditional Christmas meal and the opening of presents.

The jõuluperiood is a time of goodwill, generosity, and often a spiritual focus for Christians. It signifies the end of the year and the hope for the new one. Even for those who do not observe the religious aspects, the cultural traditions of the jõuluperiood are widely embraced and cherished in Estonia.