The Ice Age Centre Celebrated Its 13th Anniversary

The Ice Age Centre Celebrated Its 13th Anniversary – A Family Day of Nature, Science and Community in Tartu County

In July, the Ice Age Centre marked its 13th anniversary with a festive family day, offering visitors themed guided tours, raft rides on Lake Saadjärv, and nature-inspired activities on the lakeshore in Äksi. The centre was open from 10 AM to 6 PM, and the entrance fee for the day was a symbolic €6. Children under 5 entered free of charge – as is the case every day.

The Ice Age Centre first opened its doors in 2012 and is located on the shores of Lake Saadjärv – a unique area shaped by post-glacial landscapes that still offers rare opportunities for geological and ecological observation. The centre was developed through a collaboration between scientists from the University of Tartu, climate and nature researchers, and local government. Their shared goal was to create a science-based experience centre that would also be engaging and accessible to the wider public.

Today, the Ice Age Centre brings together Estonian natural history, Ice Age science and future-focused environmental topics in a modern exhibition format. It remains the only centre of its kind in Estonia where visitors can journey through 13.7 billion years – from the Big Bang to a climate-impacted future.

As part of the anniversary programme, three distinct guided tours were offered: a walk through the world of mammoths, an exploration of Lake Saadjärv’s natural surroundings, and a tour of the centre’s brand-new renewable energy exhibition. Additional activities included pony rides, meeting farm animals, a children’s café run by the local community, a display by the Five Lakes Network, and popular raft rides on the lake.

“Over 13 years, the Ice Age Centre has become a key destination for family tourism, a cornerstone for environmental education, and a hub for regional cooperation,” said Centre Director Sigrid Sepp. “Our mission is to offer content that is both educational and playful – resonating with teachers, families, and international visitors alike.”

In 2024, the centre welcomed nearly 45,000 visitors, including more than 8,000 students participating in educational programmes. Despite the rainy weather, nearly a thousand people took part in this year’s anniversary celebrations.

The birthday week concludes with a concert by the Estonian band Kõrsikud on 13 July. Tickets are available at the Ice Age Centre and via Fienta.

More information: www.jaaeg.ee