When the Nordic Coast Glows: Ancient Bonfires Night on Muhu
As August fades and the Baltic shoreline brightens, island after island, the Nordic tradition of lighting ancient bonfires returns to life. From Finland to Estonia, the seafaring communities have long lit coastal fires to guide ships—and today, it’s become a luminous festival celebrating togetherness. On Muhu Island, Muinastulede Night is that radiant final wave goodbye to summer.
One of the most anticipated gatherings this year is at Pädaste Manor, hosting a Concert Dinner & Ancient Bonfiresevent on Saturday evening. The night opens with a stirring solo performance by pianist Jan Luley, whose jazz‑blues artistry perfectly reflects the soul of the Baltic coast. Meanwhile, Chef Achim Braitsch presents a bespoke menu for the evening, drawing on local, seasonal flavors crafted with finesse. As twilight deepens, a grand bonfire will glow beside the water—a shimmering hearth for music, community, and island magic.
Down at Lõunaranna Harbour, Restaurant KALA is throwing a lively seaside party on Friday, August 30. Muhu Virtuoosid will take the stage, cold beer will flow from the tap, shashlik will sizzle on the grill, and smoked fish will come fresh from the oven. Just bring a spark of excitement and perhaps a jacket as the coast cools.
That same evening, Muhu Veinitalu offers a cozier take on the celebration with a special bonfire dinner—farm-style food, wine, and great company in a warm and intimate atmosphere. It’s the perfect setting for those who want to enjoy the glow of the fire with a glass of wine and countryside calm.
But the heart of Muinastulede lies beyond big venues—it's a community glow. In coastal villages across Muhu, from Võiküla to Kallaste, families and friends gather by the shore to ignite local bonfires, share stories, and send summer off with a warm, ember-lit embrace. Quiet or festive, every fire tells the same story: the ancient Nordic pulse lives on.
So whether you're at the manor’s refined concert‑dinner, dancing by the harbor, or standing quietly beside a village fire, come be part of the glow. This Muinastulede Night, Muhu truly shines.
