This year’s Christmas party at the Melbourne Estonian House saw an impressive turnout, with 200 guests filling the hall. Some came to bid farewell to the house’s final Christmas bash, while others showed up for their annual dose of festive cheer. The celebration was a delightful mix of joy, with just a sprinkle of nostalgia.
This Christmas party was special – we all felt it. It was a celebration topped with extra joy and just a pinch of nostalgia. With the Estonian House now up for sale, it marked the end of an era for families who’ve been celebrating Christmases here for over 50 years. Stories of festive seasons gone by were shared at tables and the bar, echoing long into the night.
Here are the highlights from Melbourne’s Christmas party. We came together with our families to share a meal and celebrate the season. As expected, the food was fantastic, the company warm, and the sense of community truly celebrated. But let’s slow things down – I’ll spotlight my favourite parts for you.
We broke bread with our actual and extended families
To kick things off, let’s address the question on everyone’s mind: what was on the menu? The brilliant Anthony and Evelin Erm served up traditional Estonian Christmas dishes with a few creative twists. We started by breaking bread – literally – and followed it up with mulled wine that packed a little extra punch (you know the kind). If you don’t, well, there’s always next year’s party!
More delicious food made its way to the tables, courtesy of the Erms and their helpers, all delivered with signature Estonian flair. Curious? You can sneak a peek at the menu in the photo album below. Feeling a little envious is perfectly natural – some of us managed extra helpings at the party and from the takeaway containers quietly taken home. Want in on the secret of takeaway Estonian Christmas food? Linger near the kitchen as the party winds down. That tip’s as sacred as campfire stories, except ours come straight from the heart of the kitchen.
We shared a proud moment with Matti Kiviväli in celebration of his legacy
This year’s Christmas party at the Estonian House in Melbourne featured a heartfelt tribute to Matti Kiviväli, recognising his decades of dedication to the local Estonian community. On Citizen’s Day, 26 November 2024, Matti was honoured by the Estonian Minister of Foreign Affairs for his outstanding contributions to preserving Estonian heritage and promoting its reputation abroad.
During the party, Ingrid Melotte, Chair of the Melbourne Estonian Society, delivered a speech congratulating Matti and presented him with flowers. The celebration highlighted Matti’s leadership in preserving archives, teaching folk dancing, and fostering a vibrant community space at the Estonian House.
We watched performances and were tempted to join in
What else? There were lively singing and dancing performances by children and adults. Many of you mentioned how wonderful it was to watch the activity groups perform, and some even said you were tempted to join in. Well, you’re welcome to! We’ll be back in action in February 2025, so keep an eye on our newsletters for details on how to get involved.
I’ll happily claim that the performers had just as much fun as the audience (with a little extra anxiety for us first-timers). Yes, it was my debut dancing Estonian folk dances on stage and right up to that first step, all I could think was… must…remember…first step… But once I took that first step (which I remembered – yay!), the rest was fun. I danced like nobody was watching!
We admired Santa’s rock star-worthy appearance
Santa Claus made a rock star-worthy appearance, much to the delight of the 50 or so children eagerly awaiting their turn to perform in exchange for gifts. In true Estonian style, they had to earn their presents – but none of the kids seemed to mind. They were incredibly creative, and I’m sure I witnessed some future pianists, comedians, singers, and actresses in the making. None of the children seemed worried about their first step – they were all stars in the making!
We got a behind-the-scenes look
This year, I got an inside look at what goes into organising the Christmas parties, and let me tell you, it’s months of planning and fitting together intricate puzzle pieces. What you don’t see as a guest is that there are actually three parties: the Before Party, the main event on the day, and the After Party later that evening. And no, your money won’t get you into the other two – access is earned through goodwill and volunteer work.
The Before Party took place a week ahead, when the Estonian House was buzzing with what felt like half the Melbourne Estonian Society, plus some eager new faces. We decorated the Christmas tree, set up the tables, and did all sorts of prep work. Performers – both children and adults – were there for final rehearsals, and the house was alive with the sound of children’s laughter and adults’ excitement. At one point, I remember declaring, “I’m having so much fun!”
The After Party unfolds spontaneously, yet with tradition, in the final stages of the Christmas celebration. It’s when the last bits and pieces are tidied up, the Christmas tree is carefully taken down, and placed back in its usual resting spot under the stage at the Estonian House. It’s also when a handful of people make their way to the bar, grab chairs, pass around glasses of something sparkly, and share stories, reminiscing about the Christmas party that’s just come to a close.
Join us next year!
The success of this event is thanks to the tireless efforts of the Melbourne Estonian Society Committee and the many volunteers who generously gave their time and energy. You are truly wonderful! A heartfelt thank you to every one of you!
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Häid jõule! Merry Christmas!
The Melbourne Estonian Society thanks you for a wonderful year and wishes everyone, near and far, a very Merry Christmas and joyful holidays!
