Tartu, the second largest city in Estonia, officially started in 2024 as the European Capital of Culture for the year, with hundreds of events planned over the past few months.

The celebrations were opened last Friday evening with a spectacular outdoor show, and the highlight of the opening ceremony was a multimedia performance titled "All One" on the banks of the Emajõgi River, featuring theatrical, musical, and dance performances.

Tartu is considered the cultural center of the state overlooking the Baltic Sea bordering Russia in northeastern Europe.

Estonian President Alar Karis said before thousands of viewers, "For centuries, Tartu has always been the heart and soul of Estonian culture." The country's president, in his hometown, pointed out that culture is the fundamental pillar of the country, saying: "It highlights the uniqueness of our country, our people, and our nature."

Urmas Klaas, the mayor of the city, said in his speech: "We have waited a long time for this moment." The year of Tartu as the Capital of Culture "will be a positive year for Europe