On February 19, during a festive evening directed by Kaisa Ling, the Tartu Culture Carrier 2025 awards were announced at the Vanemuise small house. The awards recognize significant contributions to the cultural life in Tartu, Estonia. This event underscores the cultural richness of the city and aims to promote and support local initiatives within the arts landscape.

The title of 'Cultural Organization of the Year' was awarded to the Estonian Literary Society for its efforts in coordinating activities related to the Estonian Book Year and Tartu's UNESCO City of Literature initiatives. Additionally, Mariann Raisma and Kadri Kaljurand-Lipp were recognized as 'Cultural Organizers of the Year' for their project 'Invisible Tartu. 800 years since the city's inception,' which highlights pivotal moments in the city’s history through a creative lens.

Furthermore, the innovative and high-level production 'TAPTY1985. Descending into the Valley' by the Tartu New Theatre was honored as the 'Cultural Event of the Year.' This performance became one of the most significant events in the Estonian theater scene last year. Lastly, Aveli Asber received the title of 'People’s Culture Carrier of the Year' for her leadership in the general dance festival 'Iseoma' and for her role as the director of the jubilee concert of the Tartu University Folklore Ensemble.