At our local “culture house” there is always something going on : from dancing to theater, or a dog contest… but what we went to see was the “witches night” a german tradition, which estonians adopted way back when they were under german power. It was a pagan ritual, to celebrate the earth and the arrival of spring. As in other places, a great bonfire was lit for the occasion and split logs were set on fire on stones sticking out of the river : a great effect !
We were lucky enough to have our own witch in Jõelahtme all dressed up and preparing a potion. she did a little magic and shared the drink with the children and the people around. we were gladly surprised to taste warm apple juice with cinnamon…
Then we all gathered inside and played some games before dancing to the music of a local band.
It sure was a lot of fun and we felt we were well intergrated in the local life.
