Ringliigid

Ringliigid, meaning "circle leagues" in Estonian, refers to a traditional folk game played primarily in Estonia and Latvia. The game involves a group of people, typically children, forming a circle. One person is designated as the "leader" or "chaser" and stands either in the center of the circle or just outside of it.

The objective of the game is for the leader to tag one of the participants within the circle. The participants, in turn, try to avoid being tagged by moving around the circle. Often, the leader will walk around the outside of the circle, and when they choose, they will tap one person on the back. That person then becomes the new leader, and the previous leader joins the circle.

Variations of Ringliigid exist. In some versions, the leader might try to catch a dropped object, like a handkerchief or a small ball, which is passed around the circle. If the leader successfully retrieves the object before it is passed to the next person, that person becomes the new leader. The game emphasizes agility, quick reflexes, and cooperation among the circle members to keep the object moving. It is a simple yet engaging activity that has been passed down through generations, promoting physical activity and social interaction.