Estonian, with its unique sounds and linguistic intricacies, offers a charming way to express greetings and well-wishes during holidays and special occasions. Knowing a handful of phrases can help you merge into Estonian festivities with ease. Below are some phrases to get you started.

Palju õnne!
This is a general congratulatory phrase that means “Much happiness!” or “Congratulations!” It can be used for birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, or any other celebratory event.
Palju õnne sulle uue töökoha puhul!

Häid pühi!
The phrase translates to “Happy holidays!” and is a versatile phrase used during any holiday season.
Soovin teile kõigile häid pühi!

Häid jõule!
Meaning “Merry Christmas!”, this warm greeting is specifically for the Christmas season.
Häid jõule ja kohtumiseni uuel aastal!

Head uut aastat!
As the New Year rolls around, you would want to wish someone “Happy New Year!” with this phrase.
Head uut aastat! Loodan, et see toob sulle palju rõõmu.

Rõõmsaid lihavõttepühi!
This is the Estonian way of saying “Happy Easter!” during the Easter holidays.
Rõõmsaid lihavõttepühi! Nautige kevade algust!

Häid sõbrapäeva!
If you want to wish someone a “Happy Valentine’s Day!” in Estonian, this is the phrase to use.
Häid sõbrapäeva! Saadan sulle palju armastust.

Naistepäeval õnne!
On March 8th, the International Women’s Day is celebrated, and in Estonia, you can wish women “Happy Women’s Day!” with this phrase.
Naistepäeval õnne! Täname, et olete inspiratsioon.

Ilusat isadepäeva!
“Happy Father’s Day!” is expressed with this phrase in Estonia; a perfect way to show appreciation for fathers.
Ilusat isadepäeva! Sa oled parim isa maailmas.

Head emadepäeva!
Similarly, to wish “Happy Mother’s Day!”, you would use this heartwarming Estonian phrase.
Head emadepäeva! Sa teed kõik, mida teed, nii ilusti.

Õnnelikku sõbrapäeva!
Another way to express “Happy Friendship Day!” in Estonian is with this phrase, perfect for celebrating friendships on Friendship Day.
Õnnelikku sõbrapäeva! Oled mulle väga kallis.

Rõõmsaid jaanipäeva!
Midsummer’s Day, known as “Jaanipäev” in Estonia, is a significant holiday celebrated with this wish for “Happy Jaanipäev!”.
Rõõmsaid jaanipäeva! Loodetavasti veedad toreda päeva.

Head iseseisvuspäeva!
To honor Estonia’s independence on February 24th, you can use this patriotic phrase which means “Happy Independence Day!”.
Head iseseisvuspäeva! Elagu Eesti!

Mastering these phrases can make you feel part of Estonian culture and festivities. Try them out on your Estonian friends or when you are visiting Estonia to participate in the local customs and celebrations. Don’t be afraid to practice, as Estonians are generally happy to hear their language spoken by visitors and are very forgiving of any mistakes. Tervist (cheers) to your Estonian language journey!