There’s something magical about bonfire – especially when it’s surrounded by Estonians, sizzling šašlõkk, potato salad and folk dancing! On Saturday, 7 June 2025 at 12 PM, the Brisbane Estonian Society is once again lighting up the countryside with our most beloved tradition: Jaanituli, the Midsummer bonfire celebration.
This year’s party promises to be bigger, brighter and even tastier – so gather your friends, pack your camping chairs, and get ready for a day of pure Estonian joy in the heart of Queensland. Those who’ve attended before claim this is the Midsummer Party in Australia to beat!
But there’s only one way to find out if those “Best Bonfire in Australia” rumours hold true – join us on 7 June 2025 at 12 PM. Head to 110 Byrnes Road North, Joyner 4500 QLD, and experience it for yourself!
🔥Bonfire, dancing and flaming performances
Let’s start with the fire. A proper bonfire, of course – big, bold and blazing – perfect for gathering around, roasting your spirits, and watching the flames dance like Estonian folk tales come to life.
Speaking of dancing: our beloved folk dance troupe Folkroos will be gracing the stage with their joyful energy. And they’re heading straight to Laulupidu in Estonia after this event, so this is your chance to catch a world-class performance right here in Joyner QLD before they twirl off to Tallinn. Don’t miss this special treat – your clapping hands, impressed mind and happy heart will thank you.
To turn up the heat even more, the dazzling fire dancer Merilin returns for her second year. If you thought last year’s performance was hot, wait until you see her set the night sky aglow in true Jaanituli style.
🍖 Feast like an Estonian
Hungry? Good. Because the legendary chef Sirle is back in the kitchen, armed with skewers, culinary secrets and sauerkraut. The menu includes:
- Pork and chicken šašlõkk
- Creamy potato salad
- Sauerkraut
- Fresh salad
- And naturally… thick slices of must leib (black bread), the cornerstone of any self-respecting Estonian feast.
Meals will be served from 2.00 PM to 3.30 PM, and if you’ve got little ones in tow, there are special kids’ portions ($15) and snack tables with child-approved munchies – fruit, Estonian treats and more.
Bonus: this year features a market stall area where you can buy Estonian sweets, snacks, black bread and warm drinks including glögi, Vana Tallinn, Gin, Estonian beer and coffee.
🎨 Kid’s corner: singing, reading, painting – and snacks!
The Brisbane Estonian Playgroup parents have once again organised a magical kids’ corner full of crafts, games, face painting by the marvellous Sille, and even quiet time with books and singing for our youngest festival-goers. It’s a joyful space where little ones can play, create, snack and rest between skipping in the grass.
🏕️ Camping, companions and comfy clothes
Camping is welcome – but spots are limited, so the organisers are asking $15 per site to help manage numbers. Campers can pitch their tents or park their caravans between 11 AM – 1 PM or after 7 PM. For safety, there’s no vehicle access to the main event area during the core festival hours.
BYO camp chairs, picnic rugs, torches and your best stories. Dogs are welcome too (leashed, friendly and poop-bag equipped, please!).
Tickets and details
- Time: Saturday 7 June 2025, from 12.00 PM to 10.00 PM
- Location: 110 Byrnes Road North, Joyner QLD 4500
- Ticket: $30 (until 4 June) | $40 after 4 June and at the gate
- Kids under 16 & Seniors: FREE
- Meal: $25 | Kids’ portion: $15
- Camping: $15 per setup
- Book: www.jaanituli.com.au
- Event info & updates: Facebook event link
Need we say more?
This event is organised by the Brisbane Estonian Society, and they’re calling out to you to join the fun – because where there’s bonfire, there’s a Midsummer Party in Brisbane. And it wouldn’t be the same without you. 🔥
