Seto Kingdom Day

The Forest Finns Republic, which took place in Norway in the early 1990s, was the inspiration for Seto Kingdom Day. The first Seto Kingdom was established in Obinitsa in 1994. Every year on the first Saturday in August, the Setos have had a kingdom day in a different municipality in the Seto area. Those who are not dressed in Seto traditional costume can apply for "visas on arrival" at the kingdom's "border."

The inhabitants of Setomaa choose who will be the earthly representative of the mythical King Peko for the following 12 months – the ülembsootska – on this significant day. The Seto hymn is sung, the people chose the greatest artists and artisans, and the new leader is elected on the festival day, which follows a traditional framework. Seto cuisine and crafts are created as improvised singers and dancers compete against one another. At the end of the day, the Seto military may be seen. After that, guests are welcomed to karma, a Seto party complete with instrumental music, leelo singing, and dancing.