Estonian folk dance
Tulehoidjad
Estonia
Tulehoidjad, the keepers of the flame, have danced in Portland since 1950.
- Dancing since 1950
- Four generations of one family
- Tantsupidu in Tallinn, 2025
- Children from age three
“Tulehoidjad keeps the flame of Estonian culture and traditions alive here.”
Upcoming events
The ensemble was formed by Lehti Merilo, born in Narva, who made her home in Oregon in 1949. Since 1985 her daughter Liina Teose has directed it and plays the accordion; granddaughter Maarika teaches, and Janne Sepp runs the children's group: four generations in one circle. Waltzes, polkas, partner and contra dances; children join from age three.
Four trips to the Dance Festival in Tallinn, most recently in July 2025. They have danced in the Rose Festival parade, at ScanFair and at every West Coast Estonian Days since 1986. In 2016 Merilo and Teose received the Estonian American National Council's award.
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