On the first Saturday of August, the village of Mikitamäe located in Southeastern Estonia will become the Seto Kingdom for a day. This is the most important cultural day of the year for Seto people when everyone is welcome to celebrate all things Seto. Launched in 1994, the day celebrates Seto language, culture and traditions through folk singing, dancing, food contests, and the democratic election of the community's earthly leader (ülembsootska).
Who is the Seto King?
Peko is the hero of the Seto national epic. According to legend, Peko is asleep in the caves of the Pskov-Caves Monastery and cannot rule the kingdom himself. The Setos therefore choose an ülembsootska (leader) in his place. The person is elected in the most democratic way - by how many people line up behind him or her. The result speaks for itself.
On Seto Kingdom Day you can hear the Seto hymn, see the Seto army march, spend Seto money, and enjoy traditional Seto food and drink.
Schedule:
12.00 Kingdom Day opening
12.30 Food and beverage area opens
12.30-15.00 Competitions
13.00-15.00 Village stage and mainstage program
16.00 Ülemsootska speech and new ülemsootska election
17.30 Awarding of Kingdom's champions
18.00 Military parade
19.00 A performance by popular Seto folk rock band "Zetod"
Seto Kingdom Day will take place on August 1st this year, more information can be found here.
