I thought that the youth party would be just one big performance for me as the host. That it would be just one role for me as a theater lover. But it was so much more than that...
As soon as I had the opportunity to be part of the organizing team for the 2026 Youth Festival, I didn't hesitate for a moment and signed up. And things moved very quickly from there – weekly meetings with the entire organizing team as well as smaller teams, where specific tasks were already distributed among members. Gradually, the picture started to come together: stage, lighting, sound, workshops, guests – every detail mattered.
The party started at 6:00 PM, but we, the organizing team, were already there at 12:10 PM and started bringing the equipment, lighting, and sound into the hall. This took about an hour and a half. After that, there was a quick meeting – we noted who was present and discussed the most important matters. Then everyone got to work on their tasks.
At 2:15 PM, I and the other host, Marta, headed for the script rehearsal. We went through the program several times, adjusted sentences, and practiced transitions. We wanted everything to flow naturally and confidently.
At 4:00 PM, we took a short food break – we ate pizza and ice cream and tried to relax for a moment.
Just before the start, standing backstage, we both felt our hearts beating faster. Thoughts like, 'Will everything go according to plan? Will the audience engage?' still came to mind. But when we finally stepped onto the stage and spoke the first words, the nervousness vanished almost instantly. The cheerful young people and the first applause made us feel that we were exactly where we needed to be.
Looking outside before six o'clock, we saw a very long queue of guests. This meant we had to quickly adjust the schedule – we let the DJ play first and started the introduction 20 minutes later than planned. There were even more moments of improvisation like this. It was then that I realized how important teamwork and trusting each other are. On stage, you are never truly alone.
Throughout the party, various workshops and activities took place. For example, the Sexual Health Center of the University of Tartu Women's Clinic was present; it was possible to make friendship bracelets for oneself and a friend, and there was also a mocktail bar where our lovely organizing team members prepared delicious drinks.
One of the most memorable moments was looking out over the hall from the stage. I saw young people laughing, dancing, and talking with each other. At that moment, I realized how much this party truly meant to them. They can be themselves.
This youth party taught me more than I expected. I learned to improvise, make quick decisions, and trust both myself and my team. But most of all, I learned that great things come from small contributions. Every cable laid, every rehearsal, every meeting – all of it matters.
I learned that if you ever get the chance to participate in organizing an event – don't hesitate. It can be much more than just one event. It can be an experience that stays with you for a long time, even for the rest of your life; and it's magical.
Author: young volunteer Meribel Salmistu
