Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Tallinn, Estonia: Your Complete Guide

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at one of the largest celebrations in the world! Tallinn is known for its live music with performances by a few of Estonia’s top artists, followed by a cool laser show, and then a large fireworks performance. This is a celebration that goes all night long and is one that you won’t want to miss! In this guide, I will share the itinerary for the day’s celebrations, tips, and what to expect when it comes to celebrating New Year’s Eve in Tallinn.

Where to Stay for Tallinn’s New Year’s Celebration

People from all around Estonia and the world come to Tallinn to participate in this large celebration. Despite being off-season for tourists, the accommodation prices will experience a slight increase during the Christmas and New Years holidays. If you’re planning a visit to one of the world’s largest New Year’s Eve celebrations, be sure to book your accommodation at least 2 months in advance. Note that larger groups or tour groups can receive a discount from a few hotels in Tallinn if you ask at reception.

Getting Around Tallinn

Tallinn has a wide network for public transportation with a variety of options to help you get around the city such as trams, trolleybus, trains, taxis, and buses. Residents of Tallinn actually can use public transportation for free!

Transportation operates regularly during the day on New Year’s Eve. The schedule begins to change around 5 PM, when locals begin to have dinner with their families. By later in the evening, people are beginning to gather around Freedom Square for the celebration so public transportation is very minimal, but the taxis are waiting everywhere.

Tickets for Tallinn’s New Year’s Celebrations

The good news is that the main New Year’s celebration in Freedom Square is free! You can come and go as you please throughout the evening. If you’re looking to go to one of the themed or celebrations at restaurants or clubs in the city, you will need to purchase your tickets at least a month in advance. Some places will include a dinner in addition to the party/club.

It’s very rare for there to be people who don’t show up to their reservations, but it is not impossible. My friends actually were able to attend one of the celebrations after a couple did not show up to their reservation. But it’s better to purchase your tickets in advance so you don’t get denied entry or experience disappointment.

What to Expect at Freedom Square

People will begin to gather in the square around 9 PM to grab their spots. The full event starts at 10 PM, where a few artists will perform 30ish minute sets. Close to midnight, there will be a countdown that leads to a full show of fireworks for 30 minutes and then a very cool laser show with special effects that incorporate buildings around the Square. The music performances tend to continue on into 2 AM, where people then disperse and go to the clubs until the late morning.

Fireworks and music can be heard around the city until very late into the morning. If you have an early morning wakeup call the next day, be sure to bring ear plugs. Note that drinking alcohol in public is prohibited in Estonia. However, many will ignore this rule during the New Year’s Eve celebrations.

What to Wear

Dress comfy and warm. It is very cold in Estonia during the winter. If you’re planning on going to any restaurants or clubs afterwards, they will offer a coat check so you can still wear your fancy night outfits.

Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Tallinn, Estonia, is an enchanting and memorable experience filled with a unique blend of traditions, festivities, and the warm spirit of the Estonian people. From the dazzling fireworks illuminating the skies over the historic Old Town to the cozy gatherings with loved ones, Tallinn offers a charming and welcoming atmosphere for ushering in the new year. Whether you choose to participate in local customs, attend lively events, or savor delectable cuisine, Tallinn provides a delightful backdrop for creating lasting memories and starting the year with joy and hope. So, if you’re seeking a distinctive and heartwarming way to celebrate the arrival of a new year, Tallinn, Estonia, should undoubtedly be at the top of your list. Cheers to a memorable New Year’s Eve in this captivating Baltic gem!

Planning a visit to Estonia? Check out my complete guide!