A celebration of Finno-Ugric culture in Tartu

Text Mark Taylor
Photo Finno-Ugric Film Festival

Finno-Ugric Days, a two-day celebration of the creativity and heritage of Finno-Ugric peoples, will begin at Estonian National Museum in Tartu today, June 14. The highlight of the event will be the concert “Forgotten Peoples” by Chœur de l’Orchestre de Paris, which aims to bring attention to the cultural significance of these communities through the music of Veljo Tormis.

This culturally enriching event, organised as part of the Tartu European Capital of Culture 2024 programme, includes a wide array of activities. Visitors can participate in an academic conference by the Fenno-Ugria Society, enjoy a range of films at the Finno-Ugric Film Festival (FUFF), and engage in thematic workshops. The schedule features unique sessions such as an Estonian Sauna Culture workshop, a shamanic journey, and a forest immersion experience.

The event’s programme is packed with artist talks and Q&A sessions accompanying film screenings, including “Tundra Within Me” and “The Life of Ivanna,” providing a deep dive into Finno-Ugric culture. Additionally, the Fenno-Ugria seminar will offer insightful discussions on the fate and future of Finno-Ugric peoples.

Finno-Ugric Days not only aims to preserve the cultural heritage of the region, but also to revitalise ties with modern society. The event will culminate at 8 pm on June 15 with a concert entitled “Forgotten Peoples”, conducted by conducted by Ingrid Mänd.

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Chœur de l’Orchestre de Paris Estonian National Museum Estonian Sauna Culture Finno-Ugric Culture Finno-Ugric Days Tartu Tartu 2024