In 2003 to Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity was inscribed the Baltic song and dance celebrations – multinational masterpiece and common heritage of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia.
The tradition of these large-scale celebrations started at the end of 19th century in Estonia. In those times, when Estonia and all Baltic states were incorporated in Orthodox Russian Empire, traditional songs and dances become way to express national identity and intentions to restore independence.
The Baltic Song and Dance Celebrations are held every fifth year in Estonia and Latvia and every fourth year in Lithuania. The traditional festivals run on several days, gather together as many as 40,000 singers and dancers. Most of the participants of the Baltic Song and Dance Celebrations belong to amateur choirs and dance groups.