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The Summer Rhythm of Narva-Jõesuu: Zumba, People and Good Deeds

Every summer, Narva-Jõesuu is filled not only with sunshine, sea air and a resort atmosphere, but also with a special rhythm — the rhythm of dance, movement and good deeds. The annual charity Zumba events have become more than just a sports activity here. They are meetings of friends, open public gatherings that anyone can join — even by chance — and a place where the energy of movement turns into real support for those who need it.

Behind this celebration stands a team, dedicated instructors, the support of the city and, above all, people who year after year choose to dance not only for themselves, but also for others.

Organiser: how the tradition began

Every lasting event starts with an idea and people who are willing to take responsibility for organising it and seeing it through. The charity Zumba events in Narva-Jõesuu have grown in exactly this way — from the desire to bring together dance, people and support for others in one shared format. Below is a conversation with one of the organisers, Anna Markova, about how it all began, why Narva-Jõesuu became the natural home for this event, and what usually remains behind the scenes of each summer celebration.
These charity Zumba events have already become a summer tradition in Narva-Jõesuu. How did it all begin, and how did the idea of combining Zumba and charity come about?

The idea came together very naturally — three wishes aligned at once. We wanted to dance outdoors, we wanted to do something good, and we wanted to bring all our Zumba friends together in one place. The very first event actually took place indoors because of the weather, but that didn’t get in the way — the atmosphere was still warm, lively and truly uniting. That’s when it became clear that the format works and is definitely worth continuing.

Why did you choose an open summer event format? What does it offer compared to a regular studio workout?

The feeling is completely different. People from different instructors — sometimes even from different cities — come together here. Some come specifically for the event, while others may simply pass by, hear the music and join in. For many, it’s their very first experience with Zumba. This format offers more freedom, lightness, fun and energy — it’s not just a workout, but a true celebration of movement.

The event takes place in Narva-Jõesuu every year. What does it mean to you to organise it here?

In our region, summer means Narva-Jõesuu, and Narva-Jõesuu means summer. There’s really no other way to put it. Everything comes together naturally here — the atmosphere, the people, the mood. It’s the perfect place for events like this.
How do you choose the charitable cause or organisation to support? What is most important for you in this process?

The most important thing is that the help is real and truly reaches those who need it. Over the years, we have supported children with special needs, cancer support funds and shelters for homeless animals. Of course, we would like to help everyone, but we try to choose initiatives where the funds raised can genuinely make a difference.

How challenging is it to organise events like this? What usually remains “behind the scenes”?

It only becomes difficult when the team doesn’t work well together — and in that sense, we’ve been very fortunate. We always feel strong support from the city and the Narva-Jõesuu Centre for Interests. At the same time, we are always open to help: sponsors contribute prizes for raffles, and many people help completely voluntarily, adding their own contribution to the common cause. It’s a large collective effort that isn’t always visible from the stage.

What personally moves or inspires you the most during these days — during or after the event?

It’s incredibly inspiring to see that the effort truly pays off. And during the event itself, it’s of course the happy faces of the people. In moments like these, you understand exactly why all of this is being done.

Has people’s attitude towards charitable sports events changed over the years? Have participants become more conscious?

Despite the fact that life has not become any easier in recent years, people are still willing to do good deeds — and that is incredibly valuable. Participants come with awareness and a clear understanding of why they are there, and you can really feel it.

Charity summer event in Narva-Jõesuu, 21 July 2018. On stage is Ksenia Klochkova, head and founder of the Päite animal shelter.

Is there a story or moment from previous years that you still remember with particular warmth?

When we first raised funds for the Päite animal shelter, its founder Ksenia came onto the stage together with one of the shelter’s dogs and said that the collected amount could save “one and a half horses.” As strange as that expression may sound, it was the moment when I truly realised that every contribution — even the smallest one — can save a life.

How do you see the future of these Zumba events?

I would love to see more and more participants and instructors joining each year — not only from other cities in Estonia, but possibly from other countries as well. It would also be exciting to explore new locations in the city, such as the future Cultural Quarter or the lighthouse area.

Instructors: the energy that brings people together

The atmosphere of every Zumba event is created by the instructors — they set the pace, energy and mood of the celebration. Many of them return to Narva-Jõesuu year after year, becoming an integral part of this summer tradition. Our questions were answered by Zumba instructor Valerija Dorofeeva from Kohtla-Järve, a long-time participant who joins the charity Zumba events almost every year to support both the celebration and its charitable cause.
Why did you decide to take part specifically in charity events rather than only in regular ones?

I don’t participate only in charity events. However, this format offers a special feeling — as if you become part of a chain of good deeds. Knowing that your contribution matters and that together we can help is very inspiring.

How does working as an instructor at such a celebration differ from a standard class for you?

Essentially, there is no difference. Whether it’s a regular class or an event, I always give one hundred percent as an instructor — even if I’m teaching only two tracks. I share my energy and positive emotions everywhere, and I truly love receiving smiles and excitement from the participants in return.

Do you feel a special kind of energy from participants when they know they are dancing not only for themselves, but also to help others?

Zumba enthusiasts always bring positive energy. But at charity events, you can feel that participants approach it more responsibly. They understand that every person who joins is a contribution to the shared cause, so they make an effort to come, support and stay truly engaged.
Based on your experience, how suitable is Zumba for people of different ages and fitness levels at open city events?

Zumba is an incredibly versatile format that works well for people of all ages. For older participants, movements can be simplified, the range of motion reduced and the tempo slowed down. For children, the movements can be adapted into a more playful and fun format. I know this from experience, as at larger events at the Piäte shelter there are always dance breaks, and on site I adapt the movements according to the participants.

What does taking part in such events give you personally — both professionally and emotionally?

From a professional point of view, it’s a huge advantage. I get to practise presenting choreography and guiding movement for a large group of people, many of whom may be experiencing Zumba for the first time. I enjoy observing how people pick up the movements, how they manage to follow along, and then analysing afterwards what could be improved.

Emotionally, I am very involved in these events — I always take them close to heart. I’m sincerely grateful to all the participants and feel immense joy when we manage to raise a meaningful amount for charity.
How would you describe the atmosphere of the summer Zumba events in Narva-Jõesuu in one sentence?

We are one big Zumba family — a friendly atmosphere, laughter all around, warm hugs when we meet, and the shared joy of doing something good together.

The City: support and space for living

Support from the city and municipal institutions plays an important role in ensuring that such events remain sustainable and continue to develop year after year. The questions are answered by Natalia Mjatšina, Head of the Narva-Jõesuu Centre for Interests.

Why is it important for the city to support initiatives such as charity sports events?

Charity sports events help, first and foremost, to raise important social issues and draw attention to them — not only among participants, but also within the wider community. In addition, such events help to strengthen community ties and foster a sense of involvement.
What do events like these bring to Narva-Jõesuu in terms of the urban environment and the image of a resort town?

They make leisure time more diverse for both residents and visitors, expanding the ways people can spend time in a resort town. Such events help engage different target groups and present Narva-Jõesuu as a lively, open and active place.

Would you like to see more events like this in Narva-Jõesuu? In which areas is the city particularly open to cooperation?

The city is always open to cooperation with organisers of various initiatives. We are especially ready to support events for children, as well as sports and charity activities that contribute to the development of urban life and the local community.
This year, the charity Zumba event in Narva-Jõesuu will definitely take place again. The team is already working on the preparations, which means another meeting lies ahead — where movement, music and good energy come together for a good cause.

Up-to-date information about the date, location and programme of the event will be available on the city’s social media channels and on the tourism website VisitNarvajoesuu. Stay tuned and join in!
What is Zumba? Zumba is a dance-based fitness programme built around simple, energetic movements performed to lively music. It combines elements of Latin and modern dance styles with cardio training, making the workout feel light and accessible for people with different fitness levels.

Today, Zumba has grown into a truly global movement: more than 15 million people in nearly 180 countries practise Zumba on a regular basis. The format works equally well in fitness studios and in open public spaces, which is why Zumba is a popular part of large-scale events and festivals.

One of Zumba’s key strengths is its accessibility and atmosphere. No prior dance experience, age or specific fitness level is required — everyone moves at their own pace and enjoys the process. This is why Zumba is often chosen for city celebrations, where anyone can join in, even those who simply happen to pass by.

Zumba’s popularity has long extended beyond the fitness community. The format has been mentioned and embraced by well-known artists such as Jennifer Lopez and Shakira, while music by performers like Pitbull is regularly featured in Zumba classes around the world. All of this confirms that Zumba is not just a sport, but part of contemporary movement culture.
2025-07-25 09:53 Nature & Outdoor Activities Events & City Life