Concerts and festivals
Pärnu’s cultural life centers around one of Estonia’s best theaters, Endla, and the Pärnu Concert Hall. St. Elizabeth’s Church also hosts many excellent concerts. Traditionally, in the summer, many open-air concerts are held at Vallikääru’s stage, in the garden of Villa Ammende, on other outdoor stages and on the many grass fields of Pärnu’s parks.
Pärnu is well-known for the events that take place every summer – the annual Hanseatic Days and Guild Days festivals bring together craftsmen from near and far and fill the streets and parks with sights, sounds, and carefully designed handicrafts.
Several famous festivals, such as the Pärnu Music Festival led by Paavo Järvi, and the International Organ Festival, take place in Pärnu. The annual month-long Kabli Sunset Festival brings together thousands of music and culture lovers. Lasting several days, Kihnu Island’s Kihnu Sea Festival has gained such popularity that the ferry is too small to carry everyone interested in attending from the mainland to the island. Booking a ticket in advance prevents getting into this trouble.