There’s a certain kind of magic in summer evenings, especially in the countryside, where life flows at a slower pace. So, for me, it was a definite yes when I first heard about this enchanting night market in South Estonia, held inside a forest… only hours before it started. Together with my sister-in-law, spouse, and our 9-month-old baby in a baby carrier, we took a picturesque but remote sand road through forests and fields. Though we got to admire the setting sun and its golden glow quite a bit, we didn’t know what exactly was awaiting us—or where exactly we were going.

Getting to Uma Üülaat in Hargla: A Scenic Forest Drive

Hargla is a small village in Valga County, South Estonia, about a 4-hour drive from Tallinn, or a 40-minute drive for us from Antsla. It’s a hidden gem for anyone exploring Valgamaa or Võrumaa. Upon arrival, we were welcomed by friendly staff, and since we hadn’t bought early-bird tickets beforehand, we could buy them on site. Paying by card wasn’t an issue at either the entrance or the market.

We brought both our small travel stroller and my baby carrier, so our little one could both explore the market with us and also be close to me—and this combo was a success.

A Fairytale Forest Market With Food, Music, and Handmade Crafts

As we entered the pine forest, we were not disappointed. Vibrant rows of booths glowed under twinkling fairy lights, creating a scene straight out of a fairytale. I don’t know what it is with my spouse, but somehow, miraculously, he always finds French-speakers wherever we go—which is fun, even if it’s just a small quick chatter. That was the case here too.

There was live folk music, delicious food—especially pastries and sweets—and local makers selling their stunning art. We arrived a little late and spent a lot of time just wandering around, so we missed out on the full food experience, but my sister-in-law bought some locally made cheeses and traditional kvass, a classic Northeastern European drink, to enjoy for days to come.

The handmade craft stalls were also plentiful—an authentic showcase of local Estonian artisans, ceramics, jewelry, fashion, candles, and natural cosmetics—and such a charm to look at under the fairy lights and night sky.

Family-Friendly Summer Festival in Estonia

Uma Üülaat is not just for adults; it’s a family-friendly summer festival in Estonia, perfect for visitors of all ages, with several activities for children too. If you ever find yourself in Estonia during the summer, I highly recommend making a trip to this charming night market.

I find it very sweet what a beautiful event the local Hargla community has been able to create. I’m familiar with night markets from our beloved Provence, where especially during the summer they are far more pleasurable than daytime markets in the scorching heat. But with its versatile program and fairytale forest setting, Uma Üülaat is something very special—and by far the most beautiful market I’ve ever been to.

Our journey home was at least as exciting as the journey there, through the pitch-dark night. Finland is famous for its white summer nights, but in the heart of South Estonia, the nights are noticeably darker—a reminder to drive slowly, as these roads belong to the forest’s animals too. On the other hand, the darkness offers the most romantic setting for catching a sky full of stars.

Practical Information: When and Where

This event took place on July 26, 2025, at 19:00 in Hargla Pine Forest. The next market is planned for August 1, 2026. Check out their Facebook page Uma Üülaat Hargla or Instagram @hargla.uulaat for information on upcoming dates.

If you come from further away, it’s better to arrive on the earlier side. The event lasts until about 1 a.m., but sleep-deprived parents as we were—though our baby was sleeping happily on me in the baby carrier—we left around 10 p.m. Uma Üülaat reminds on their social media that you are welcome to bring your own picnic basket, utensils, a blanket to sit on, and bottled water. The ex tempore latecomers we were, we didn’t get this memo, but next year we’ll come even better prepared.

Do you know someone who would love this fairytale night market? Maybe this is the sign to plan a trip together.