If Estonians are known for anything, it’s that we’re not afraid of a little weather. Today in Tallinn, under a very moody sky, Estonian Australians joined the great procession of the XXVIII Song and XXI Dance Celebration “Iseoma”, strutting the 5 km route from Vabaduse väljak to Lauluväljak with 45,000 other festival-goers.
Yes, it rained. Yes, it kept raining. Yes, we wore ponchos. And yes — some of us have now formally apologised to the poncho community for doubting their style credibility. Because if you haven’t seen a national costume paired with a rain poncho, let alone tens of thousands of them, you’re missing out on high fashion meets folklore in its boldest form.
Estonians don’t just walk in a parade — they perform it
There was singing, shouting, cheering, limericks, drumrolls, and spontaneous acts of acrobatics. Someone literally did a handstand. Entire groups broke into songs, while audience members joined in or — better yet — ran right into the parade to hug a mate or shout a joyful “Elagu!”
Little kids yawned. Dads promised it was “almost over.” Strangers sang in sync. And of course, Estonian Australians — ever magnetic — somehow managed to find each other amid a crowd of over 100,000. We must have a sixth sense for this.
What rain? There’s singing to be done
After the parade, the opening concert kicked off with ceremonial fire, presidential speeches, and thunderous rounds of flag-waving and hand-waving.
The combined choirs were magnificent, shaking raindrops loose from tree leaves with the sheer force of harmony. From where we stood under the iconic Laulukaar, it was joy in stereo. Flags flew, hands waved, the crowd sang along — drenched, yes, but undeterred.
Macchiatos and magic moments
Waiting for all the groups to arrive gave us time to warm up with food, friends and a few musical curveballs — like a surprise orchestra performance of Tommy Cash’s Eurovision number “Café Macchiato” (yes, really). And just when you think the moments of magic have peaked, someone on your left yells your name — and boom, another Aussie Estonian reunion in the wild.
On the bus, still singing
Just when we thought the day was over, something beautiful happened. On a packed bus heading out of town, someone started singing “Mesipuu poole”. Others joined in. And just like that, our bus was full of voices — tired, wet, buzzing with joy, and still singing.
Stay tuned: Dance festival highlights coming soon
We’ll be back soon with tales from the tantsupidu — and yes, you will want to read those. Spoiler alert: Tuljak broke out in a pub last night and it was glorious.
Final day of Laulupidu tomorrow!
Don’t forget — tomorrow is the second and final day of the song festival. Rain, shine or sideways snow, we’ll be there. Because when it comes to our culture, our people, and our music — we show up, we sing loud, and we find each other in the crowd.
Let’s keep dancing. Let’s keep singing. And let’s hope the food stalls stay well-stocked — some of us definitely skipped lunch (while having too much fun).
Video link
Here’s a brilliant video by Anthony Noack featuring the Estonian Australian choirs and folk dancers at the Song and Dance Festival procession on 6 July 2025. Click below.
Photos
Here’s a glimpse into today’s procession and concert in Tallinn in photos.
Thank you!
Our gratitude goes to Anthony Noack for his speedy and excellent video production. We are also grateful to Hilja Toom and Esmée Okamoto for contributing with their wonderful photos and information.
Interesting links
Estonia’s 2025 Song Celebration unites 130,000 voices in Tallinn
