külapäev

Külapäev, also known as the Day of the Stranger, is a traditional Estonian holiday celebrated on the first Sunday of Advent. It is a day dedicated to welcoming and celebrating strangers, both literally and metaphorically. The holiday has its roots in the medieval period when Estonian villages would open their gates to travelers and strangers, offering them shelter and food. This tradition was a way to foster community and mutual aid, especially during the harsh winter months.

On Külapäev, Estonians prepare special meals and offer them to strangers who visit their homes. The meals often include traditional Estonian dishes such as blood sausage, pickled herring, and rye bread. The holiday is also marked by various cultural events, including traditional music and dance performances. It is a time for reflection on the importance of hospitality and the value of welcoming others into one's community.

The holiday is celebrated not only in Estonia but also in other Baltic countries, where similar traditions of welcoming strangers are observed. Külapäev serves as a reminder of the importance of community, hospitality, and the spirit of giving. It is a day that encourages people to open their hearts and homes to those who may be in need or simply seeking a warm welcome.