See how fourth-graders celebrated independence in style and glitter
Let's celebrate independence with gusto! Mayor Pekka Timonen invited all of Vantaa's fourth graders to an Independence Day reception, and on 27 November, nearly 3000 schoolchildren celebrated at the Vantaa Energy Arena. See more videos and photos in the middle of the article.
Before 9 am, the atmosphere at the Energia Arena in Myyrmäki is tingling with anticipation. A line is forming to greet the schoolchildren and dancers from the Vantaa Dance Institute begin to dance for the waiting crowd.
- It's very thrilling, and we're really excited, say Dea and Liina at the front of the handshake queue.
The Mayor of Vantaa, Pekka Timonen, is also looking forward to the start of the Independence Day celebrations in a joyful and festive mood.
- Few celebrations have such a great atmosphere as the Independence Day for schoolchildren. This is not just a celebration, but a celebration of independence, says Timonen.
At 9 am, the greeting begins. So hand on heart and happy Independence Day! Pekka Timonen is joined by Katri Kalske, Deputy Mayor for Education and Learning.
In the second line, Ilkka Kalo, Director of Basic Education, and Anders Vikström, Director of Swedish Language Services, greet the students.
A video of the greeting line can be seen at the beginning of this article. The Vaskivuori High School Chamber Orchestra plays in the background.
Dances in the air
Students from Jokiniemi and Kannisto schools share their feelings of celebration in an interview. They are looking forward to the dances.
- The best part is that you get to dance, summarises Nea-Lina.
The cake and the surprise performer also get votes from the fourth graders.
The theme of the celebration, independent Finland, is spoken about in a beautiful way. For example, Finland's nature is appreciated.
Then it's time for speeches and singing together. The first song is Yhdessä Vantaalla, composed by Isa-Eerika Lehto.
Telma, Yusuf, Tihon, Liina and Saga from Veromäki school will speak at the event. They will highlight how good it is to be and live in Vantaa - this year marks the city's 50th anniversary.
After a joint Maamme song, it's time for dancing. This is what we have been waiting for!
Both the traditional Kehruuvalssi and several contemporary dances will lead the dancers into the vortex. Thanks to the Vaskivuori High School Big Band for the music!
The surprise performer wowed
After the dances, the excitement builds: who will be the surprise performer at this year's party?
The answer is JVG, and the atmosphere goes through the roof, and the drumming gets into full swing.
After the show, the party comes to an end, and Hanin gives his closing words. He says he loved everything about the party.
The article was updated with photos, videos and text on the afternoon of 27 November. See also the stories on Instagram: instagram.com/stories/vantaankaupunki!
