14th Seto Leelo Day

Setomaa’s song festival – Leelopäev – is a big day in the world of Seto singing. On 25 June 2016, Leelopäev will be held for the 14th time. The theme of songs this year is Seto women. Since time immemorial, women have been the stewards for Seto culture and link connecting the past to the future. Lyrical and musical improvisation has given women sustenance at various times in their lives.
The Setos’ leelo folk song, which has been recognized by UNESCO as part of humankind’s intangible heritage, will be performed by choirs from both sides of the Estonian Russian border. Each choir will have to come up with the words to fit this year’s theme. This year’s festival will be rich in new songs. The Leelopäev fair will be a sight to be seen, with Seto crafts on sale and culinary delicacies also featured. As in years past, the day will conclude with a traditional party of dancing and singing.
A play and crafts den will be set up for the children. The song festival fairgrounds will be attended by local craft and food vendors. In typical fashion, the day will end with a big dance and celebration.
Schedule:
10:00 Benediction to the Setos’ “mothers of song” – the female bards – and the revivers of the Leelopäev tradition, Värska cemetery
12:00 Opening of the leelo room at Saatse Seto Museum
14:00 Leelo choir procession from Värska song festival to Seto Farm Museum, opening of the festival
19:30 Party continues to the strains of music by Kiiora
Admission: adults 5€, students and pensioners 3€. Free for under 12 and anyone wearing Seto folk costume.
More info: www.verska.ee/et/leelopaev