Lamprey Festival Becomes the Calling Card of Narva-Jõesuu

Since 2009, the Lamprey Festival has evolved into a hallmark event of Narva-Jõesuu and a cherished tradition for both local residents and visitors. The autumn celebration held on 27 September once again confirmed its status, setting new attendance records. Traditionally organised at the end of September, the festival highlights the significance of lamprey as a unique species found in only a limited number of places worldwide and deeply connected to the history and identity of our region.

Beyond gastronomy and the fair, the festival offered a wide range of interactive activities. The culinary heart of the event was the Peipsimaa Community Kitchen area, where visitors were taught how to properly clean, fry and marinate lamprey, followed by tastings of the prepared dishes. The Ida-Viru Vocational Education Centre also presented modern culinary approaches, demonstrating how to prepare elegantly served lamprey appetisers.

In the creative zones, visitors could experiment with various artistic techniques. Artist Jekaterina Kuznetsova from the Narva Ingeri House led a linocut masterclass, while Karu Klubi offered the opportunity to decorate miniature fish figures created using a 3D printer.

Particular interest was drawn to the interactive area of the Tartu Nature House, where guests could explore both well-known and lesser-known fish species of Estonia. Children and adults examined fish scales under a microscope and participated in water-themed games.

A free photo booth allowed every guest to print a cheerful souvenir photo from the day. A charming novelty this year was a collection of soft lamprey plush figures — true queens of the festival. These hand-sewn original toys became the stars of countless photographs, with visitors queuing to capture memorable moments.

The central highlight of the celebration was the traditional aromatic lamprey soup — the festival’s culinary symbol — personally served by Mayor Maksim Iljin. During the day, 700 portions of the hot dish, prepared according to a special recipe by head chef Artjom Romanov, were enjoyed by visitors.

The large fair brought together 120 vendors offering a wide variety of products: street food, handicrafts, seedlings, clothing and souvenirs. Special attention was drawn to the 17 fish stalls, where lamprey and other fish were available fresh, dried and smoked.

The evening culminated in a concert by the popular indie-rock band Frankie Animal. Their energetic performance, driven by powerful guitars and charismatic vocals, provided the perfect finale to the festival programme, sending the audience home charged with эмоtions for the year ahead.

The festival was organised with the support of the Integration Foundation project “Sports and Cultural Events Promoting Entrepreneurship in Ida-Viru County.”

The latest Narva-Jõesuu Lamprey Festival once again proved that it has long since become more than just a gastronomic event — it is a day when the city truly comes alive, demonstrating its hospitality and its ability to celebrate on a grand scale.