Peipsiääre

Peipsiääre municipality is a self-governing unit of Tartu County, which was formed on October 23, 2017 as a result of the merger of Alatskivi municipality, Kallaste city, Pala municipality, Peipsiääre municipality and Vara municipality. The area of the municipality is 652.26 square kilometers. In terms of territory, this municipality is slightly larger than the Estonian average (median 550 km2), but in terms of population it is smaller than the average (median approx. 7,700 inhabitants). Peipsiääre municipality has 89 settlements, including the smallest town of Estonia – Kallaste.

Like many small rural municipalities in Estonia, Peipsiääre Municipality faces the challenges of an ageing and declining population. The primary concern is the departure of young people from their hometowns after completing basic education, as well as competition between villages within the municipality.

However, the distance from major urban centers has instilled in our residents an appreciation for their roots and local cultural heritage. Our region is exceptionally rich in culture, and we proudly present three unique cultural traditions to visitors and the community. These include the distinct Kodavere culture, the culture of the Russian Old Believers, and the Baltic-German manor heritage.

During the BSR Cultural Pearls title year municipality plans to launch a hackathon to bring youth ideas to the table and foster their development. Based on the ideas’ potential, municipality is ready to integrate them into the development plan, offering support and guidance for implementation. Additionally, two youth camps will be conducted aimed at introducing young people to their cultural heritage and equipping them with contemporary skills.

To strengthen local ties and increase community engagement, municipality will organize a Dance Festival, the municipality’s smallest town, Kallaste, will be featured at the Rural Living Day. Furthermore, traditional events will take place, particularly the high-participation Sibulatee Buffet Day, which attracts a large number of locals and visitors.

Visit: www.peipsivald.ee