Estonian festival celebrates summer solstice

Edmonton, June 1999 — Alberta’s Estonians gather around a bonfire, celebrating the 100 years since the first Estonian pioneers arrived in 1899. - pics/2012/06/36738_001_t.jpg — Edmonton, June 1999 — Alberta’s Estonians gather around a bonfire, celebrating the 100 years since the first Estonian pioneers arrived in 1899.

By Candice So, June 19, 2012
EDMONTON - For some, the summer solstice may simply mean a little extra sunshine, but for Alberta’s Estonians it’s a festival that rivals Christmas.

On Wednesday, the sun will be up for 17 hours, two minutes and 48 seconds, making it the longest day of the year. In Estonia, the day is known as Jaanipäev, and in its honour Alberta’s Estonian community is throwing a two-day party this weekend, complete with boat cruise, choir, bison dinner and a bonfire. The event is expected to draw about 160 people

On Wednesday, the sun will be up for 17 hours, two minutes and 48 seconds, making it the longest day of the year. In Estonia, the day is known as Jaanipäev, and in its honour Alberta’s Estonian community is throwing a two-day party this weekend, complete with boat cruise, choir, bison dinner and a bonfire. The event is expected to draw about 160 people.

Edmonton: http://www.edmontonjournal.com...