Each year, Citizen’s Day events are connected to a different motto, which, in turn, is connected to the theme of the year.
Each year, the Ministry of Culture announces the Competition for the honorary title Citizen of the Year. All permanent residents of the Republic of Estonia can enter the competition and everyone can submit their candidates. The application must explain the suitability of the candidate and their connection to the motto. The Citizen of the Year award goes to people who have stood out for their activities and care for the Estonian society.
List of previous motos of the Citizen's Day and awards of Citizen of the Year:
- 2025 - Piia Kallas
- 2024 - Iti Aavik
- 2023 – Triinu Ossinovski
- 2022 – Johanna-Maria Lehtme
- 2021 – Irja Lutsar
- 2020 – "Citizen takes responsibility" – Arkadi Popov
- 2019 – "We are bound by what we love" – Riina Roose
- 2018 – "A Common State Brings Together" – Eva Truuverk
- 2017 – "Shaping our Future" – Rasmus Rask
- 2016 – "Creating new horizons" – Kristi Liiva
- 2015 – "Music unites" – Helen Sildna
- 2014 – "Movement heals the world" – Ilma Adamson
- 2013 – "A citizen creates and preserves cultural heritage" – Marju Kõivupuu
- 2012 – "Through life with grace" – Krista Aru
- 2011 – "Grown to be a citizen" – Konstantin Vassiljev
- 2010 – "Active citizen is richness of the state" – Pieter Boerefijn
- 2009 – "Creative people – successful state" – Erkki Sven Tüür
- 2008 – "Republic of Estonia through 90 years" – Rainer Nõlvak
- 2007 – "State of Estonia is proud of me" – Lagle Parek
- 2006 – "State starts from a good father" – Andrus Veerpalu
- 2005 – "Child will grow to become a citizen" – family Adamson
- 2004 – "Strong family, happy nation" – Jüri Jaanson
- 2003 – "Citizen of Estonia is citizen of Europe" – Lennart Meri
The tradition of Citizen of the Year was started by Paul-Erik Rummo, former Minister of Population. All of those who are awarded the title of Citizen of the Year are gifted the miniature sculpture made by Reti Saks called the Blossom of the Society.