Külmad

Külmad is a traditional Estonian winter festival celebrated on the shortest day of the year, typically around December 21st. The name "Külmad" translates to "cold" in English, reflecting the harsh winter weather that marks the occasion. This festival has roots in ancient pagan traditions and has evolved over time to incorporate both folk customs and Christian influences.

During Külmad, Estonians engage in various activities to welcome the return of longer daylight hours and the gradual easing of winter. One of the most notable customs is the lighting of bonfires, which symbolize the sun’s rebirth and the triumph of light over darkness. These fires are often built in open fields or near homes and are accompanied by communal gatherings, singing, and storytelling.

Another traditional practice is the preparation of special foods, such as *kartulipuder* (mashed potatoes) or *verivorst* (blood sausage), which are shared among neighbors and family. Some regions also observe the custom of "Külmad jumping," where people leap over bonfires or fire pits as a ritual for good luck and protection against evil spirits.

Külmad is also associated with divination and fortune-telling, particularly among young women who seek to predict their future marriages. One common method involves rolling a ball down a slope and interpreting its path or stopping point.

While Külmad is not widely celebrated in modern times, it remains a part of Estonia’s cultural heritage, often observed in rural areas or during folk festivals. The festival blends elements of nature worship, seasonal renewal, and communal bonding, reflecting the deep connection between Estonians and their natural environment.