Kihnu's mittens, troi, "ulalistmine" and striped skirts are famous in many countries, especially among craftsmen and scientists.
UNESCO proclaimed Kihnu's cultural space and traditions as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity on November 7, 2003. The Baltic islands of Manija and Kihnu are home to a small group of traditional people. For many years, the men of Kihnu have been frequently gone to sea while the women ran the island and became the guardians of the island's cultural heritage, which includes handicrafts, dances, games and music. Music is an especially important part of the island's traditions, and accompanies handicrafts, religious feasts and other celebrations. Ancient rune-styled songs are also important, as are traditional clothing’s adorned with decorations and bright colors that symbolize ancient legends and poems. The people of Kihnu speak a dialect of Estonian which is sometimes considered as a distinct language
