The Estonian community in Canberra is invited to gather at the Australian War Memorial on Tuesday, 23 June 2026, for a wreath-laying ceremony marking Estonian Victory Day (Võidupüha).
Estonian Ambassador Jaan Reinhold will lay a wreath during the Australian War Memorial’s Last Post Ceremony. The wreath-laying will take place in the Commemorative Courtyard from approximately 4.30pm, with the ceremony running from 4.15pm to 5pm.
The ceremony offers an opportunity to pause, reflect and remember those who have fought for freedom, democratic values and peace. Community members and friends of Estonia are welcome to attend in person, and the ceremony will also be streamed live via the Australian War Memorial’s YouTube channel.
If you would like to attend, please RSVP by 17 June 2026 to embassy.canberra@mfa.ee.
Event details
What: Last Post Ceremony and wreath-laying ceremony marking Estonian Victory Day
When: Tuesday, 23 June 2026, 4.15pm – 5.00pm
Where: Australian War Memorial in Canberra, Fairbairn Avenue, Campbell ACT 2612
RSVP: embassy.canberra@mfa.ee by Wednesday, 17 June 2026
What is Estonian Victory Day?
Victory Day (Võidupüha) is an Estonian national holiday celebrated each year on 23 June. It marks the victory of Estonian and Latvian forces in the Battle of Võnnu (Cēsis) in 1919 during the Estonian War of Independence.
Since becoming a national holiday in 1934, Victory Day has come to represent more than a single battle. It is also a day to remember the generations of Estonians who have defended their country’s freedom, independence and right to self-determination.
Victory Day is closely connected with midsummer (Jaanipäev) celebrations on 24 June. One of the best-known traditions is the ceremonial Victory Day flame, which is lit by the President of Estonia and carried across the country to light midsummer bonfires — a symbol of freedom, continuity and national spirit.
Thank you
Thank you to Ambassador Jaan Reinhold and Denis Bowler for providing information about this event.
Read more
Last Post Ceremonies | Livestream | YouTube
Home | Australian War Memorial
Estonia’s Victory Day | ERR
