Song and Dance Events
Celebrating, taking part, and sharing Estonia’s song, dance, and folk music traditions is an essential part of the West Coast Estonian Days. Look no further than the following events:
LEP XXXVI Opening Ceremony and Reception
Friday, June 26 // 7:30 PM
Grand Hyatt Union Square
Note: doors open at 7:00 PM. We are honored to welcome special guests to open the festival, as well as musical performances from classical pianist Hando Nahkur and classical bassoonist Martin Kuuskman. Other featured musical performers include pianist Mikk Otsmaa, Inglikeeled kannel ensemble and the combined festival choir which includes singers from Segakoor Noorus, Rotalia Meeskoor, Baltimore-D.C., and singers from Seattle, San Francisco, and other locations. The reception takes place on the 36th floor of the Grand Hyatt with spectacular city views, with the celebration continuing into the evening as internationally acclaimed DJ Kiino Villand sets the atmosphere with music that carries the celebration into the night.
Included in Festival Pass. Additional tickets available. Includes catered reception.
Saturday, June 27 // 12 - 6 PM
Campus of Nativity of Christ Greek Orthodox Church, Novato
The folk festival is an entire day of fun - our own song and dance festival and picnic. The day is bookended by the main song and dance concerts of the festival, and also includes musical performances and workshops with visiting and local musicians.
Participating choirs include Noorus Segakoor, members of the Rotalia Meeskoor, and singers from the West Coast cities and Baltimore-D.C., led by Heather MacLaughlin Garbes and Crista Berryessa. West Coast dancers are led by Liina Teose of Portland’s Tulehoidjad dance group. We’ll celebrate Jaanipäev with cultural workshops, games, Midsummer Market, wine-tasting, activities for the whole family, and the company of friends.
Included in Festival Pass. Individual tickets also available. Transportation available by separate ticket.
Jumalateenistus
Sunday, June 28 // 10 - 11 AM
Grand Hyatt Union Square
Bishop Ove Sander of the Estonian Evangelical Lutheran Church (EELK) will lead an Estonian-language worship service that will also feature choral selections performed by festival singers.
Sunday, June 28 // 3 - 4:30 PM
Union Square
Let Estonian song and folk music resonate in the city with a pop up performance at Union Square! Music from visiting and local choirs and musicians. Everyone is welcome.