For more pictures and video, see Facebook site www.facebook.com/PillerkaarDC/ and webpage www.pillerkaarwdc.com

Pillerkaar dancers joined dozens of Estonians and friends basking in the glow of the warm hospitality and blazing Jaanipäev bonfire at Vilve and Paul Ladon's Päkametsa Farm in Taneytown, Maryland on Saturday, June 24 evening. Families and old friends gathered from hundreds of miles to be together, even from as far as Pennsylvania. And for those who didn't yet know each other, Vilve and Paul's lawn games turned them into new friends.

Before the bonfire was lit, Pillerkaar performed Kungla polka, Raksi Jaak, and Tuljak (joined by Paul Ladon, Liivi Sharp, and Guinness, a black lab!). More guests joined us for the group dances Neljäpuari and Kaera-Jaan, during which Guinness made an unforgettable entrance in his impatience to get into the circle. Once lit, the enormous bonfire impatiently devoured its fuel, sending sparks high into the darkening sky as if seeking to reach the stars. Lit by the flames, Pillerkaar danced Kõrtsiruumis, Padespan, Reinlender, and Vanaviisi valss.

Life is truly beautiful to be made welcome by such wonderful hosts, to be surrounded by friends old and new, and to celebrate ancient and modern Estonian traditions. The glow in our eyes and hearts will long remain.

Elu on ilus, kui su kõrval on keegi
keegi, kes su südames süüdanud leegi.
Elu on ilus, kui silmade sära
ei-ei kustuks me südames iialgi ära.

[Life is beautiful when there's someone by your side
Someone who sets your heart aflame.
Life is beautiful when the sparkle in our eye
Forever glows in our heart]

We'll be welcoming new dancers in September – we'd love for you to join us!

Anu Oinas

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