Hundreds flocked to Manhattan this weekend for the annual Estonian Cultural Days in New York, a generation-spanning event drawing a growing number of young diaspora Estonians.
For decades, Estonians across the Northeastern U.S. and beyond have gathered in Manhattan for the festival. Now, a new generation is increasingly visible, often congregating on the upper stairs at the New York Estonian House (NYEM) between events.
“We’re just here, talking, hanging out, and having fun,” said Heili.
Younger folks having their own favorite go-to spots to hang out in the building is nothing new, but carving out a hideout several floors up has its own strategic advantages.
“All the parents are downstairs, and they tell you what to do,” Heili explained. “‘Go do this,’ or ‘Go do that!’ But then we just run up here and, I dunno, hide out and chat.”
‘You tell Americans you’re Estonian’
For many, the event is about more than concerts and folk dancing. It’s a place where different backgrounds and identities meet.
“It’s the nature of the diaspora: you’re never fully part of one community or the other,” said Kaisa. “But that has its charm. It gives you added perspective and broadens your worldview.”
Living in the U.S., identity often starts with heritage. “For Americans, where you’re from, where your family comes from, is the most important thing,” Heili said. “You don’t just tell Americans that you’re from America; you say you’re Estonian.”
Like in many other “esto” communities across North America, many Estonians in and around the Big Apple stay connected through membership in various community clubs and activities.
For younger diaspora members, that means New York Estonian School (NYEK) and, later, youth clubs and the local folk dance troupe, Saare Vikat.