mulgustid

Mulgustid is a traditional Estonian folk festival celebrated on the evening of August 15th, marking the beginning of the harvest season. The name derives from the Estonian words *mulgus* (meaning "harvest") and *pidu* (meaning "feast" or "celebration"). This event holds cultural significance as it symbolizes gratitude for the year’s bounty and the transition into autumn.

The festival features a variety of customs, including communal gatherings, music, and dance. One of its most distinctive traditions is the lighting of bonfires, which are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune to the crops. Villagers would gather around these fires, sharing food, drink, and stories, reinforcing community bonds.

Mulgustid also incorporates elements of pagan heritage, particularly linked to the ancient Baltic festival of *Rūpūžs* or *Rūpūžkalns*, which honored the harvest goddess. Over time, Christian influences blended with these traditions, though the festival retained its agricultural roots. In modern times, Mulgustid is observed in rural areas of Estonia, particularly in the Mulgimaa region, where it remains a cherished part of local identity.

The celebration often includes folk songs, such as *Mulgustid laulud* (Mulgustid songs), which are passed down through generations. While its observance has declined in urban settings, efforts to preserve the festival’s customs continue, ensuring its place in Estonian cultural heritage.