Events for every season in Tallinn
Tallinn’s cultural calendar is packed throughout the year and has something for every taste – from world-class opera to legendary rock stars and EDM events, from international film and sports festivals to local summer street celebrations and Christmas markets. Whether you’re here for a quick city break or a longer stay, Tallinn offers the perfect mix of classic elegance and modern energy
4 Reasons to Pick Tallinn for a City Break
Tallinn has mastered the art of contrast – here history and creativity coexist effortlessly. It’s a city where a medieval skyline hosts modern beats and where every street can lead to something new. From symphonies to street art and from design fairs to dance festivals, there’s always something happening.
Photo: Rainer Ojaste / Jazzkaar
1. Where modern meets medieval
Few cities combine history and innovation so seamlessly. In Tallinn, classical music, contemporary art and electronic beats share the same stages – often set within centuries-old architecture.
2. Compact city, big experiences
Tallinn may be small in size, but it packs a cultural punch. It often takes just a minute or two to move from symphonies to street art, or from design fairs to film screenings. Music, theatre, cinema and design all thrive here – a true festival city that never stands still.
3. Lively atmosphere, for everyone
From high culture to hipster energy, Tallinn’s cultural life is as diverse as its neighbourhoods. Explore creative quarters like Telliskivi Creative City or Paavli Culture Factory, where studios, cafés and venues mix effortlessly with galleries and street stages.
4. Easy to reach, easy to explore
Getting to Tallinn is effortless, and exploring it is even easier. Step off your Tallink ship, and within 30 minutes on foot or 10 minutes by taxi, you’re already in the heart of the city’s cultural scene.
Estonian National Opera – The Heart of Tallinn’s Culture
The Estonian National Opera, housed in a stunning neo-classical building in the city centre, is where Tallinn’s love for music and theatre truly shines. From grand opera and ballet to symphonic concerts and international guest performances, the Opera’s season offers unforgettable experiences throughout the year. Curious to see what happens behind the curtain? Join one of their guided tours.
Opera “Charon”
Tallink presents “Charon”, a brand-new opera by Andrus Kivirähk and Tõnis Kaumann. Set in the realm of Greek mythology, it follows underworld’s ferryman Charon on his journey full of love, humour and discovery. With its fresh storytelling and bold staging, Charon promises to be one of the highlights of the opera season.
New Year’s Eve Ball
The Estonian National Opera’s New Year’s Eve Ball is the most magnificent way to end the year in Tallinn. This year, the entire opera house will be transformed into seven differently themed halls filled with exclusive concerts and special performances by the brightest stars of Estonia’s opera stages and dance floors.
Latvian National Opera in Tallinn
This spring, the Latvian National Opera and Ballet arrives in Tallinn with two celebrated productions. Offenbach’s Hoffmann’s Tales takes audiences on a dramatic journey through love and illusion, while Esmeralda, inspired by Victor Hugo’s classic, offers a powerful ballet filled with emotion, artistry and beautiful choreography.
Lithuanian National Opera in Tallinn
The Lithuanian National Opera and Ballet Theatre visits the Estonian National Opera with two remarkable performances: the beloved ballet Coppélia, marking the 100th anniversary of Lithuanian ballet and Britten’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, a magical and visually striking opera based on Shakespeare’s timeless play.
Stay in tune with the city – Concerts & Music Festivals
From world-famous superstars to intimate jazz nights and genre-blending festivals, Tallinn’s music scene offers unforgettable experiences in every season.
Photo: Tallinn Music Week
Tallinn Music Week
For these four days, hundreds of concerts fill Tallinn’s creative districts and best venues with unique musical talent from across Europe and beyond. The festival prides itself on its multi-genre spirit, with artists ranging from experimental electronica to post-punk to classical and everything in between. Whatever your taste, you can be sure Tallinn Music Week has an electric performance just for you.
Photo: Rene Jakobson / Jazzkaar
Jazzkaar
Baltic’s biggest jazz festival returns for its 36th edition with a vibrant mix of global stars, innovative projects and fresh springtime energy across Tallinn. This year’s headliners include Bill Frisell & Eyvind Kang, Kneebody and Kennedy Administration. The festival opens with Lady Sapiens, an ambitious cross-cultural collaboration by Mingo Rajandi.
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Swedish House Mafia
Swedish House Mafia, one of the biggest electronic music acts of all time, will give their first and only concert in the Baltics at the Tallinn Song Festival Grounds. Fans can expect a majestic open-air performance powered by the trios signature mix of powerful soundscapes, immersive visuals and spectacular pyrotechnics.
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Kings of Leon
One of the biggest rock bands of the past 20 years, Kings of Leon haven’t performed in Estonia (or Finland) yet – but that will change in June. With only four European concerts on their 2026 tour, this Tallinn show is a rare chance to experience the anthemic sound of the four-time Grammy winners live.
Photo: Mark Selinger
Lenny Kravitz
Rock icon Lenny Kravitz is back in Estonia after nearly 20 years! The enigmatic four-time Grammy winner returns to Tallinn with a setlist that brings together tracks from his newest album Blue Electric Light alongside world-famous hits like “American Woman” and “Are You Gonna Go My Way.” The perfect concert to heat up the Estonian summer.
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Moments Festival
For two days, Moments Festival will turn Tallinn into the EDM hotspot of the world. In 2025, the festival’s lineup featured Alan Walker, Steve Aoki, David Guetta, Don Diablo and other global superstars so expect nothing less this year. The Song Festival Grounds is the place to be if you’re looking for big beats and the best vibes this summer.
Festivals & City Celebrations
Tallinn’s festivals transform the city into a grand stage for film, history, dance and comedy. Whether you’re after high culture or relaxed open-air celebrations, there’s always something happening around the corner.
Õllesummer
Õllesummer has been a staple of Estonia’s event calendar for more than 30 years. The festival is known for its sunny mix of big stages, endless street-food stalls and easygoing atmosphere. The 2026 lineup features local superstars Smilers, 2 Quick Start and Terminaator, as well as Finnish legends Dingo and dance-club favourites Groove Coverage and Cascada.
Photo: Anton Serjukov
Tallinn Fringe Festival
This offbeat festival fills the city with bold creativity — from stand-up comedy and cabaret to dance, live art and unexpected pop-up performances. Shows take over theatres, bars, courtyards and creative hubs across the city, making it the perfect celebration of Tallinn’s playful side.
Photo: Rasmus Jurkatam
Medieval Days
Tallinn’s Medieval Days give you the chance to live like a 15th-century noble. Start with a wax-carving workshop, enjoy a harp concert as you wander the Old Town, then cheer for the knights at the sword-fighting tournament. Before heading home, stop by a local craftsman’s stall for the perfect proof of your time travel.
Black Nights Film Festival (PÖFF)
PÖFF is one of Europe’s leading film events and a true cultural highlight in Tallinn. Every year it showcases hundreds of films from around the world and welcomes international stars and filmmakers. A must-visit for any movie buff – whether you’re on the lookout for your favorite director’s newest work or an exciting debut discovery.
Seasonal Highlights – Winter & Festive Events
When snow falls and lights twinkle across the city, Tallinn turns into a winter wonderland filled with Christmas markets and festive spirit.
Photo: Kaupo Kalda / Visit Tallinn
Tallinn Christmas Market
Welcome to one of the most charming Christmas markets in Europe! Each December, Tallinn’s Town Hall Square transforms into a wintry fairytale filled with wooden stalls, festive music and twinkling lights. Looking for a guaranteed dose of holiday spirit? Grab a cup of mulled wine, take a bite of gingerbread and admire the magnificent Christmas tree.
Photo: Rene Riisalu
PROTO Christmas Wonderland
For this Christmas PROTO Invention Factory turns into an enchanted technological forest where creativity meets imagination, filled with festive light installations, VR rides and family-friendly experiments. Both children and adults will find something to craft, explore and discover in one of Tallinn’s most inventive indoor attractions.
Photo: Simon Snopek
Estonian Open Air Museum Christmas Village
Get a glimpse of Estonian village life from 150 years ago. Wander among candlelit farmhouses and take a kicksled to listen to choirs singing in the wooden chapel. This year’s Christmas Village is themed “Christmas with the written word”, so it’s perfectly fine if you don’t know your carols by heart and need to read them off your phone screen when meeting Santa and the Yule Goat.
Photo: Silver Raidla
New Year’s Eve Dinner at Nero
Raise a glass to 2026 in style at Restaurant Nero! Enjoy a lavish buffet dinner, welcome drinks and midnight bubbly, then dance the night away to one of Estonia’s funkiest live bands. Our cheerful master of ceremonies will keep the evening buzzing with entertaining games and exciting prizes. And don’t forget to stop by the photo booth to capture all the fun!
Photo: Maris Savik
Vanemuine Theatre in Tallinn
This spring, Tallinn welcomes the beloved Vanemuine Theatre with two spectacular productions at Alexela Concert Hall. First up is Kinky Boots (20–21 March), a colourful musical bursting with energy, catchy numbers and feel-good storytelling. Later in May, the comedy Sister Act (22–23 May) brings laughter and light-hearted chaos to the stage. A perfect pair of performances for anyone looking to add a little sparkle or mischief to their city break.
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Swedbank Tallinn Marathon
Every September, the Tallinn Marathon turns the city into a lively celebration of movement. In addition to the full marathon, runners can choose from the half marathon, 10K, 5K youth run and the kids’ run, making it an event for all ages and abilities. Courses wind past medieval towers, modern districts and coastal views and the weekend program also features family activities and evening concerts by well-known Estonian artists.
European Disc Golf Festival
The European Disc Golf Festival will be the biggest disc golf event in Europe in 2026. In addition to hosting the only PDGA Major Series tournament in Europe, the festival will also feature plenty of fun side events in and around the iconic Tallinn Song Festival Grounds. It’s a true must-visit for any disc golf fan whether you’re cheering from the sidelines or want to test your skills against top international stars.
Beyond Tallinn – Events Across Estonia
Estonia’s cultural energy extends well beyond the capital. From winter ski marathons and island opera festivals to summer seaside celebrations, each region offers something special. And thanks to Estonia’s small size, events outside Tallinn are still only a couple of hours’ drive away.
Photo: Kaupo Kalda / Visit Estonia
Tartu Christmas Market & Ice Rink
Tartu’s Town Hall Square turns into a glowing winter village with a festive market and a cosy ice rink. Warm drinks, seasonal stalls and holiday concerts make it a charming winter escape for all ages.
Discounts available for Club One members. For more info, see here
Photo: Lotte Village
Lotte Village Christmas Wonderland
Lotte Village becomes a magical Christmas world filled with lights, festive workshops and beloved characters. A joyful holiday outing where families can meet Lotte, explore Gadgetville and enjoy heartwarming surprises.
Photo: Tartu Marathon
Tartu Marathon
One of Northern Europe’s most iconic ski races, the Tartu Marathon draws thousands of participants each year. The scenic course winds through snowy forests and rolling landscapes, offering a memorable winter challenge for both seasoned athletes and enthusiastic beginners.
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Türi Flower Fair
Each spring, the small town of Türi is named the spring capital of Estonia. And each May it bursts into color as the country’s largest gardening fair fills the area with flowers, handmade crafts and plant stalls. A lively three-day celebration perfect for garden lovers and springtime explorers.
ZZ Top – Live in Tartu
Rock legends ZZ Top bring their unmistakable Texas blues-rock to Tartu for a truly electrifying open-air summer concert. Fans can look forward to gritty guitar riffs, iconic anthems and the trio’s signature beards that are almost as legendary as their sound.
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Pärnu Hanseatic Days
Pärnu Hanseatic Days bring the city’s medieval charm to life in a colourful open-air celebration. Expect lively street markets, costumed performers, folk music and hands-on workshops that turn the Old Town into a vibrant historical playground.
Discounts available for Club One members. For more info, see here
I Land Sound
Held on the picturesque Saaremaa island, I Land Sound blends music, art and nature into an unforgettable experience. Expect sunrise DJ sets, creative installations, beachside chillout areas and a uniquely relaxed island vibe.
Photo: Martti Volt / Visit Estonia
WRC Rally Estonia
WRC Delfi Rally Estonia brings world-class motorsport to the scenic forests and rural landscapes of South Estonia, creating one of the most thrilling sports events in the Baltics. Expect high-speed stages, spectacular jumps and an electric atmosphere.
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Moby – Live in Tartu
Electronic music pioneer Moby’s open-air concert is bound to be an atmospheric experience. Get ready for his iconic sound that blends soaring vocals with immersive electronic soundscapes and a set that brings together genre-defining classics with powerful new material.
Venues
Tallinn’s event venues are as diverse as the experiences they host — from elegant concert halls to buzzing arenas and creative factory spaces. Whether you’re in the mood for world-class opera, a stadium-sized concert or an underground arts performance, these are some of the city’s most exciting places to catch a show.
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Unibet Arena
Unibet Arena is Estonia’s largest indoor arena and the go-to venue for major concerts, sports competitions and large-scale entertainment events. Its modern facilities, great sightlines and easy access by public transport make it ideal for experiencing global stars and high-energy spectacles in Tallinn.
Paavli Culture Factory
Paavli Culture Factory has quickly emerged as one of the city’s key hubs for alternative culture. Set inside a former industrial complex, the venue hosts a lively weekly line-up of international and local artists but you’ll also find community events ranging from lucha libre wrestling to hot sauce–eating competitions.
Alexela Concert Hall
Alexela Concert Hall is one of Tallinn’s leading cultural venues, known for its excellent acoustics and diverse program. Located in the heart of the city next to Solaris Centre, it’s a favorite stage for world-class artists ranging from concert tours and theatre productions to stand-up comedy.
Did you know?
Tallinn hosts more than 2,500 events every year – from opera premieres and international film festivals to neighbourhood fairs and pop-up concerts. Its compact size means that whether you’re attending a show at the Estonian National Opera or a street festival in Telliskivi, you’re always just minutes away from your next experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the best time to visit Tallinn for events?When is the best time to visit Tallinn for events?
Tallinn’s event calendar runs year-round. Summer brings outdoor concerts and festivals, while autumn and winter shine with opera, theatre and Christmas celebrations. Whenever you visit, you’ll find something happening.
- Where can I buy tickets for concerts, festivals and theatre shows?Where can I buy tickets for concerts, festivals and theatre shows?
Tickets are usually sold online through the organiser’s official website or at venue box offices. For Tallink partner events, you’ll always find direct links and additional details here on our website.
- How is transport and accommodation during major events?How is transport and accommodation during major events?
Tallinn is compact and easy to navigate, with reliable tram, bus, taxi and ride-hailing options like Bolt and Uber always available. Even during large events, getting around is usually quick and stress-free though ride-hailing prices may rise when big crowds leave a venue at the same time.
Because Tallinn is a relatively small city, it’s wise to book accommodation early for major events, as hotel prices and availability can change quickly during peak periods.
- Which events offer Club One discounts?Which events offer Club One discounts?
Many of the events mentioned above include special deals for Club One members. Check our Offers page for the latest updates.
NB! Some discounts require booking online together with Tallink Silja Line ferry tickets.