The Estonian Association in Krasnoyarsk in Eastern Siberia celebrated its 25th birthday on October 14-15th, 2016. The Estonians interested in creating the association first came together in October of 1991 and officially registered the association in February 1992.
There are about 3000-4000 Estonians or people with Estonian roots living in Krasnoyarsk Krai. The Estonian Association in Krasnoyarsk is dedicated to the preservation of the Estonian language, traditions and culture in Siberia. The celebratory events brought local Estonians together from the city of Krasnoyarsk, but also from Haida, New Pechory (Новая-Печора), Upper Suetuk (Верхний Суетук), and other towns. The delegation and the Ambassador, Arti Hilpus, from the Estonian Embassy in Russia participated in the 25th birthday celebrations for the Estonian Association of Krasnoyarsk. As a part of the celebration the Ambassador officially opened the Estonian graphics exhibit at the Krasnoyarsk Museum.
A Siberian Estonian folklore party took place at the National Scientific Library of Krasnoyarsk Krai. The Setu singing group “Lill” (Flower) from the town of Haida performed at the concert along with the folklore group from the Võru-Setu mixed town of New Pechory and the brass orchestra from Upper Suetuk.
In the evening the Estonian youth invited young members from other national associations to an Estonian national party “Eesti öö” (Estonian Night) at the centre of creativity “Piloot“ (ПИЛОТ). Estonian folk songs were sung, Estonian folk dances were danced, an Estonian-themed quiz was conducted, and there was a master class on words and phrases used in everyday Estonian conversation. The guests were treated with Estonian cuisine. The party ended with a disco with DJ Ziggy M (Tallinn). The event was sponsored by the youth organization Interra.
Vera Nikolajeva Oinets