onoireet

Onoireet is a traditional Estonian folk custom observed on the first day of autumn, often falling around September 21st. It is a celebration marking the end of the harvest season and the transition into the colder months. The name "onoireet" itself is thought to derive from the Finnish word "syysyö" which means "autumn night," or from Estonian words related to the moon or night.

Historically, onoireet was a time for communal gatherings and feasting. Families and villagers would come together to share the fruits of their labor, enjoying preserved foods and newly harvested produce. It was also a period for performing certain rituals and making offerings, often to ensure good fortune for the coming winter and a successful harvest the following year. Storytelling, singing, and dancing were integral parts of the festivities, reinforcing community bonds.

While the specific practices and intensity of onoireet have varied across different regions and over time, the core essence of appreciating the harvest and preparing for winter remains. In modern times, some communities and individuals continue to observe the spirit of onoireet through gatherings, preparing seasonal dishes, and reflecting on the cycle of nature. It serves as a reminder of agricultural heritage and the connection to the changing seasons.