Eesti Kodu’s Mission

The following statements reflect the club’s core values and objectives:

• To promote and keep alive Estonian culture, customs and language in the North of England.

• To be a welcome place for all Estonians, those of Estonian heritage and friends and partners of Estonians, whose support we all recognise and appreciate.

• To promote harmony amongst all members (who the club recognises come from a diverse variety of backgrounds).

• To continue to hold Estonian events celebrating major Estonian significant dates and festivals, including Christmas, Estonian Independence Day, Mother’s Day in May and Jaanipidu (Midsummer’s Day).

• To continue to welcome all full and and associate members to our warm and friendly bar. As a club, we are known for our hospitality and the warm welcome we give to all guests and friends, and we strive to maintain this.

• To nurture and support the Estonian school (which uses the club premises as a base), as young people are our future. To work together with the school to hold events. To liaise with and support other Estonian organisations within the UK, including the Leicester Estonian Club, Tulevik and the Association of Estonians in Great Britain.

• To maintain good relations with the Estonian embassy in London and to invite embassy representatives to attend our key events.

  What makes Eesti Kodu special?

  The club is housed in a large Victorian detached building, which is suitable for holding indoor and outdoor events. The heart of the club is the bar, with its warm and friendly atmosphere and where, in addition to local drinks, Estonian beers, ciders and spirits are always available (Viru Valge, Vana Tallinn, Saku beer etc.)

  The club traditionally celebrates all important national holidays for Estonians - the anniversary of the Republic of Estonia, Mother's Day, St. John's Day, Christmas. These events attract Estonians and their families and friends from both near and far.

  The club's annual Midsummer parties in June are legendary. The spacious garden and open-air stage are ideal for celebrations. Musicians often visit from Estonia for this occasion to perform. Traditional shashlik and other Estonian dishes are offered. There are games for both children and adults and, of course, an impressive bonfire!

  Over the years, the club has hosted many performers from Estonia, including Untsakad (twice), Vello Orumets, Marko Matvere and the Small Accordion Association, Zetod, Reet Kromel, Meelis Punder, Erich Krieger, Siiri Känd, Väike Punt, Tuulelõtsutajad and Vanaviisi.

  All club events are held in both Estonian and English so that no one feels left out.

  Guests often say how well they have been received and how welcome they feel. They often tell us they can't wait for their next visit!