Christmas is a popular time in Estonia. The Estonian Christmas has many familiar traditions from western and northern European festive celebrations. Estonia's Nordic, wintry climate also helps to create a Christmas atmosphere. Estonian cultural, rural and pagan traditions have also influenced the Estonian Christmas and create some unique Christmas customs.

Food is naturally a big part of Christmas. Estonia's traditional foods include rye bread, pork, cabbage, potatoes and dairy products and these play a big part in Estonia's Christmas meals. Estonians enjoy fresh seasonal ingredients and these help create a variety of Christmas dishes. Of course, a wide range of indulgent festive foods such as cookies, cakes and chocolate dishes are also enjoyed.

Try some Estonian Christmas food with this book - The Estonian Christmas Cookbook.