The brand-new two-week-long Old Town Festival “Tartu Buzz” (est. “Tartu Sumin”) will begin on Saturday, July 26. The festival aims to breathe life into the historical city center and invite people to discover its hidden corners. On the opening day, visitors can enjoy a colorful mix of design, music, and community activities.
The festivities begin in the morning with the Abakhan Market Buzz and the Creativity Market of Tartu Centre for Creative Industries, both focusing on art, music, and filming. It is a great opportunity to explore local designs and unique handcrafted items.
From 12:00 to 16:00, on Rüütli Street will be a big open Old Town Day and a flea market, offering Tartu residents a chance to give a new life to no longer used items. If participants want to sell at the flea market, first they have to review the trade terms and then fill out an online form. The organiser will confirm participation via email to the address provided in the form.
Throughout the day, various cultural and educational institutions of Tartu Old Town will offer engaging activities. The Estonian Sports and Olympic Museum will feature an adventure trail and a guided tour of Tartu’s sports landmarks. Younger visitors can enjoy a soap bubble workshop, while knowledge-seekers can test themselves in a summer wellness quiz organised by the Tartu Youth Work Centre.
The festival culminates at 19:00 with a concert by the Daniel Levi Band, held in the green area next to St. John’s Church – the heart of Tartu buzz. The concert will create a special summer vibe and bring together music lovers of all ages.
According to the festival project manager Maarja Liba, the collaboration between local Old Town businesses and museums highlights the true potential of the community. “Tartu Buzz is a meeting point in the heart of the Old Town, where culture, community, and history come together. The goal of the festival is to encourage people to rediscover the charm of the Old Town and to highlight what is already here today,” she said.
Tartu Buzz will last from July 26 to August 10. While the main events will take place in the green area by St. John’s Church, the festival program will also lead participants to the side streets nearby. The schedule will be updated continuously and can be found on the official website.
More information: Maarja Liba, Head of the Tartu Events Centre, +372 5792 1174, tartukorraldab@tartu.ee
