Event Schedule
Burning Pumpkin Fest 2025 Day 1
Kick off the weekend with an exciting Opening Ceremony featuring amazing guest performances that will set the tone for the entire festival!
After the performances, stick around as we dive into the Cosplay Photography Competition, where talented photographers and cosplayers will showcase their best shots.
Watch Livestream at our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@J_TSOON
Watch incredible cosplayers showcase their skill and creativity in the Cosplay Craftsmanship (Solo) Competition. Participants will present their meticulously crafted costumes, highlighting their attention to detail in sewing, prop making, and overall design.
The best cosplayer will have the honor of representing Estonia at the prestigious Nordic Cosplay Championship (NCC) or Europa Cosplay Cup (E2C)!
Watch Livestream at our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@J_TSOON
Experience the energy and precision of K-POP dance as groups, duets, and trios of enthusiasts perform meticulously choreographed routines inspired by their favorite idols. Participants are divided into different categories: KIDS (up to 14), JUNIOR (15–17), ADULT (18+), and PRO, ensuring a fair and exciting contest for all.
Watch Livestream at our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@J_TSOON
Experience the impressive teamwork and creativity in the Cosplay Craftsmanship (Group) Competition! Groups of cosplayers will showcase their collaboratively crafted costumes, demonstrating skill in sewing, prop making, and design.
Watch Livestream at our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@J_TSOON
Experience the energy and precision of K-POP dance as groups, duets, and trios of enthusiasts perform meticulously choreographed routines inspired by their favorite idols. Participants are divided into different categories: KIDS (up to 14), JUNIOR (15–17), ADULT (18+), and PRO, ensuring a fair and exciting contest for all.
Watch Livestream at our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@J_TSOON
Moscow, 1930s. The works of a well-known writer are suddenly censored by the Soviet authorities, and the premiere of his play about Pontius Pilate is canceled. He is expelled from the Writers' Union and quickly becomes an outcast with no means of survival.
Inspired by Margarita – his beloved – he begins to write a new novel in which all the characters are satirical reflections of people from his own life. The central figure of the novel is Woland – a mysterious force who arrives in Moscow to take revenge on everyone who caused the writer’s downfall. The deeper the Master loses himself in writing, the more he fails to notice how the line between reality and imagination begins to blur.
The film is based on Mikhail Bulgakov’s novel The Master and Margarita, considered one of the most significant literary works of the 20th century.
The Master is portrayed by Evgeny Tsyganov, and Margarita is played by Yulia Snigir. Woland is performed by German actor August Diehl, while Pontius Pilate is portrayed by Claes Bang. Supporting roles include Yuri Kolokolnikov, Marat Basharov and Polina Aug.
Director: Michael Lockshin (Silver Skates, 2020)
Genre: Drama, Fantasy
Runtime: 2h 36min
Cast: August Diehl, Evgeny Tsyganov, Yulia Snigir, Claes Bang, Yuri Kolokolnikov, Polina Aug, Yuri Borisov
Language: Russian / German / Latin / Aramaic
Subtitles: Estonian
One of the most popular activities, K-Pop Random Dance, invites participants to spontaneously dance to randomly selected K-pop hits! Due to high demand, this exciting event will take place on both days
Discover the energy of yosakoi, a vibrant Japanese festival dance that fuses tradition with modern music. In this workshop, you’ll learn dynamic choreography, practice with naruko clappers, and experience the joyful spirit that makes yosakoi unique and unforgettable.
Workshop by Yuurin Yosakoi
https://www.instagram.com/yuurinyosakoi
A stage for individual talent, the K-POP Solo Cover Dance Competition lets performers shine with their favorite K-pop choreographies. Dancers captivate the audience with dynamic moves, showcasing skill and passion.
Have you ever wondered how cosplayers make costumes look like they came straight out of an animation? Or how they create replicas that look as if they were stolen from a movie set? Discover the wonderful world of adding extra details to costumes—how they can change the entire vibe, and how different interpretations of the same design can look completely unique. Perhaps you’ll even get some inspiration for your next cosplay!
Cover photo: @honeyandheatherphoto (IG)
Lecture by Luciotic
https://www.instagram.com/Luciotic
Game On! Crack the ""Gameboy"" code! Learn the fun, catchy and attitude-packed choreo of KATSEYE's ""Gameboy"". Become the ""Gameboy"" main character! Let's level up together!
Workshop by Anso
https://www.instagram.com/ansoschlyter
As an experienced dance teacher and performer, I’m excited to share my energy with everyone who joins my workshop—hoping to inspire and motivate them toward new achievements.
Workshop by Lissie
https://www.instagram.com/howallis & https://www.instagram.com/nymph.pro
Game On! Crack the "Gameboy" code! Learn the fun, catchy and attitude-packed choreo of KATSEYE's "Gameboy". Become the "Gameboy" main character! Let's level up together!
Workshop by Anso
https://www.instagram.com/ansoschlyter
Karaoke is back at J-TSOON! Get ready to sing your heart out to your favorite anime openings and themes. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just love having fun with friends, this is your chance to showcase your anime song skills and enjoy the good vibes!
HaldjasHelina has watched Winx Club since season 1 aired on Finnish television in 2004, and she’s been an avid fan ever since. In this lecture, she will discuss the strengths and weaknesses of the new Winx Club reboot—ways in which it is better than the original, and ways in which it is worse.
Lecture by HaldjasHelina
https://www.instagram.com/helinawinx
You’ve perfected your craft—now it’s time to learn how to show it off!
The goal of this panel is to break down the prejudging process and help you confidently present your work, even with a tight time limit. We’ll share insights on what judges tend to look for and how to effectively highlight your hard work. The panel will also include a mock prejudging session, giving you practical experience and (hopefully) more confidence for your next craftsmanship competition.
Panel by Freeda_M, Foxtail & Sanahi
https://www.instagram.com/freeda.m_cosplay https://www.instagram.com/foxtail_craft/ https://www.instagram.com/squirrel_sanahi/
Watching livestream of international cosplay championships and dream about to be a part of it? Let me help! On "Introduction of Competitive Cosplay" we will talk about basics of making a good structured performance, how to choose a cosplay and performance idea and what to do if you want to make a mix of "Silence of the Lamb" vibe while cosplaying Barbie.
Lecture by Miss Olive
https://www.instagram.com/olivewarbler.cos/
That sparkling emo vampire boy changed the way pop culture views vampires forever.
In 20 years, "Twilight" has brought to life millions of memes, a parody musical, several books and endless entertainment for both its fans and haters. Come find out how "Twilight" has shaped the World as we know it!
Lecture by Annely Kasela
https://www.instagram.com/annely_k_reads
This presentation provides an overview of the development and transformation of the kimono throughout Japanese history. It introduces the historical roots of the garment and explores how various periods—from the Heian era to the present day—have influenced its cut, materials, patterns, and styles of wearing. We will also cover the different layers and accessories that accompany the kimono and examine its role in various social and cultural contexts, from everyday life to formal and ceremonial occasions.
Lecture by Iardacil
https://www.instagram.com/iardacil
Ever wanted to take your cosplay to the next level with secret undergarments and hidden details? Or dreamed of making a fancy historical version of a character?
This panel takes you through everything you need to know to create a historical adaptation of a character—from choosing who to cosplay to doing the research.
I’ll even walk you through my own research and designs.
Come with me on a journey to the past, and let’s explore historical costuming and how to use it in cosplay!
Lecture by AB Costumes
https://www.instagram.com/abcostumes
Candle Workshop Alert!
Create your own spooky candle — pumpkin or ghost-shaped!
Get into the Halloween spirit by crafting your very own one-of-a-kind candle in the shape of a pumpkin or ghost!
In this hands-on masterclass, you’ll:
* Decorate your candle from scratch
* Choose your favorite scent
* Pour the wax yourself and bring your design to life
Whether you're into cute or creepy, your candle will be 100% you - perfect for cozy autumn nights or as a handmade seasonal gift.
*Spots are limited!* Pre-register now to choose your preferred design. On-site options may vary depending on availability - we can't guarantee your favorite shape will still be there!
**Cost: 13€**
No experience needed, just bring your creativity!
DM @wantitjewellery on Instagram to book your spot!
Workshop by Natalja from wantit studio
https://www.instagram.com/wantitjewellery"
Join our on-site art contest and put your creativity to the test! Bring your own supplies or use ours, and create artwork based on a given prompt. Entries will be judged, and one winner will be chosen per contest. The award ceremony will take place on the small stage on Sunday, where participants can also collect their drawings after the ceremony. Don’t miss your chance to showcase your talent!
Momiji, or Japanese autumn leaves, are cherished symbols of autumn in Japan. Their vivid red and orange hues inspire art, poetry, and festivals, celebrating nature’s beauty and cultural tradition. Come join us and explore the magic of Momiji!
Lecture by TLU Japanese Club
https://www.instagram.com/tlujpn/
Join our on-site art contest and put your creativity to the test! Bring your own supplies or use ours, and create artwork based on a given prompt. Entries will be judged, and one winner will be chosen per contest. The award ceremony will take place on the small stage on Sunday, where participants can also collect their drawings after the ceremony. Don’t miss your chance to showcase your talent!
Come join us to make your own traditional Japanese ghost doll that is used to bring good luck and stop bad weather.
Workshop by TLU Japanese Club
https://www.instagram.com/tlujpn/
By now there are many different Transformers series, each focusing on different parts of the lore in their own way. For a new fan, navigating and finding where to start can be overwhelming. After watching one series and moving on to the next, the differences might be confusing. In this panel, I want to give a simple overview of the different series and media, so that people can choose a starting point with no stress. An Introduction to Different Transformers Continuities.
Lecture by Ansu
Umbrella Corporation invites all test subjects — zombies, tyrants, and surviving anomalies — to a classified Resident Evil fan assembly. Engage in controlled social interaction, participate in experimental Kahoot! trials, and undergo knowledge assessments to determine your true compatibility with Raccoon City. Your cooperation is… mandatory!
Meetup hosted by Cherin
Meetup hosted by Chaos
-
Festival Opening Ceremony & Cosplay Photo Contest12:30 - 13:00
-
Cosplay Craftsmanship Competition (Solo)13:00 - 14:00
-
K-POP Group Competition Block 114:30 - 16:00
-
Cosplay Craftsmanship Competition (Group)16:30 - 17:30
-
K-POP Group Competition Block 218:00 - 19:30
-
Movie Screening: The Master and Margarita 2024, (18+)21:00 - 22:40
-
K-POP Random Dance!10:30 - 12:00
-
Step into Yosakoi: Japanese Festival Dance Workshop12:00 - 13:00
-
K-POP Solo Competition Block 113:00 - 14:00
-
Korniha Band perfomance14:00 - 15:00
-
Costume Detailinglecture by Luciotic15:00 - 16:00
-
Press Start to Dance: KATSEYE's "Gameboy" Workshop16:00 - 17:00
-
K-POP Dance Workshop by Lissie16:00 - 17:00
-
Press Start to Dance: KATSEYE's "Gameboy" Workshopworkshop by Anso17:00 - 18:00
-
Karaoke18:00 - 21:00
-
Is the Winx Club Reboot Better Than the Original?lecture by HaldjasHelina13:00 - 14:00
-
Cosplay Prejudging: How to Put Your Best Foot Forwardpanel by Freeda_M, Foxtail & Sanahi14:00 - 15:00
-
Introduction of Competitive Cosplaylecture by Miss Olive15:00 - 16:00
-
Fandom 101: Monsters in Pop Culturelecture by Annely Kasela16:00 - 17:00
-
Kimono – Threads of Japan Through Timelecture by Iardacil17:00 - 18:00
-
Historical Costuming and How to Use It in Cosplaylecture by AB Costumes18:00 - 19:00
-
Pumpkin or Ghost Candle Workshopworkshop by Natalja from wantit studio13:00 - 14:00
-
Art Contest14:00 - 15:00
-
Colors of Autumn - Momiji in Japanlecture by TLU Japanese Club15:00 - 16:00
-
Art Contest16:00 - 17:00
-
Teru Teru Bōzu Crafting Workshopworkshop by TLU Japanese Club17:00 - 18:00
-
An Introduction to Different Transformers Continuitieslecture by Ansu18:00 - 19:00
Burning Pumpkin Fest 2025 Day 2
The Cosplay Performance Competition brings characters to life with dramatic flair and creativity! Participants will take the stage to perform their chosen characters, showcasing their acting, choreography, and overall performance skills. From emotional portrayals to action-packed routines, each performance will immerse the audience in the world of cosplay.
Watch Livestream at our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@J_TSOON
Experience the energy and precision of K-POP dance as groups, duets, and trios of enthusiasts perform meticulously choreographed routines inspired by their favorite idols. Participants are divided into different categories: KIDS (up to 14), JUNIOR (15–17), ADULT (18+), and PRO, ensuring a fair and exciting contest for all.
Watch Livestream at our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@J_TSOON
Got a costume ready for Burning Pumpkin Fest, but not interested in the pressure of big competitions? No worries—we believe every costume, no matter how big or small, deserves its moment to shine! Join the COSPLAY MASQUERADE! Step up, strike a pose or two, and enjoy your 15 seconds in the spotlight without the stress of competing. This is your chance to showcase your creativity in a fun, relaxed environment.
Rules:
• Pre-registration is at the Cosplay Desk* on both days, from 11:00 - 14:00
• Main competition participants are not allowed
• Come alone or with friends!
• Write down your Stage Name and remember your Number!
• Be near the stage in the BLACKBOX at 15:45
*Cosplay Desk can be found on Floor 1 near Stalkeh Hall
Come watch the best cosplay videos at the Cosplay Short Video Contest! Participants will showcase their creativity in short, 30-second videos posted on platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts. From epic lip syncs to amazing character portrayals and creative transformations, this contest features some of the most exciting and fun cosplay content.
Come and watch the amazing video performances from the K-POP in Public Online Dance Competition! Participants showcase their K-POP dance moves in public spaces, bringing the energy of K-POP to life in real-world settings.
The moment we’ve all been waiting for! The Awards Ceremony will kick off with the Closing Ceremony and will celebrate all the amazing cosplay and K-pop performances. From craftsmanship to performances, the best of the best will be recognized and awarded for their creativity, talent, and hard work.
Watch Livestream at our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@J_TSOON
Using real leather for your cosplay not only looks cool—it can also have additional benefits! Have you always wanted to try adding leather to your cosplay but didn’t know how? Leatherworking for Cosplay will help you get started!
Lecture by Dishycrafts
https://www.instagram.com/dishycrafts/
A stage for individual talent, the K-POP Solo Cover Dance Competition lets performers shine with their favorite K-pop choreographies. Dancers captivate the audience with dynamic moves, showcasing skill and passion.
Get ready to learn a chorus of a trending k-pop song with Henna! Bring your best energy and let’s have fun together.
Workshop by Henna
https://www.instagram.com/sokerikeiju
One of the most popular activities, K-Pop Random Dance, invites participants to spontaneously dance to randomly selected K-pop hits! Due to high demand, this exciting event will take place on both days
The Small Hall Ceremony will be dedicated to awarding the winners of all the gaming tournaments, miniature painting contests, and art contests. Join us as we celebrate the incredible skills and creativity of participants in these competitions!
Karaoke is back at J-TSOON! Get ready to sing your heart out to your favorite anime openings and themes. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just love having fun with friends, this is your chance to showcase your anime song skills and enjoy the good vibes!
When we don’t place in the top 3, that doesn’t mean we lost. Is placing really the only form of winning? Or can competing itself also be a victory? At those times, we need to discover what ‘winning’ means for each of us individually and learn to embrace the outcome, even if it’s not in our favor. In this lecture, I will share my own story and journey as an active competitive cosplayer—someone who has received multiple prizes, but also many times did not place at all—and offer guidance for those who might feel discouraged when they don’t win in competitions, whether in craftsmanship or performance.
Lecture by Shinzo
https://www.instagram.com/shinzo.coser
That sparkling emo vampire boy changed the way pop culture views vampires forever.
In 20 years, "Twilight" has brought to life millions of memes, a parody musical, several books and endless entertainment for both its fans and haters. Come find out how "Twilight" has shaped the World as we know it!
Lecture by Annely Kasela
https://www.instagram.com/annely_k_reads
Whether you’re brand new or a longtime fan, finding the right pieces online can be exciting—but also a bit confusing. This lecture will help you navigate the many ways to shop for Lolita fashion, from brand-new releases to secondhand treasures.
We’ll cover where to shop, how to use services like shopping proxies, tips for buying secondhand safely, and how to spot replicas or scams. You’ll also get advice on discovering indie brands, understanding sizing, and building a wardrobe that fits both your style and budget.
Whether you’re searching for your very first main piece or hunting down your dream dress, this lecture will give you the tools to shop with confidence—and to have fun doing it.
Let’s step into the world of EGL fashion, one lace-trimmed detail at a time!
Lecture by Mariliis and Vamps
https://www.instagram.com/Uduvihm & https://www.instagram.com/frillyfangs
Ace Attorney - The video game took the world by a storm as it was the first game about lawyers ever. Now an attorney has gotten their hand on it and is showing you if things actually work that way.
Lecture by life_is_handsome
https://www.instagram.com/life_is_handsome
This lecture will discuss how to make a cosplay build book for craftsmanship competitions: what is usually expected, how to format and order it, what information needs to be included, and the specific vocabulary I use in my own books. I will present my own build books as examples to show how they evolved and improved over time.
Lecture by Sleepy Moth
https://www.instagram.com/_sleepy_moth
Some cosplays might look simple and still win a competition—but the reason isn’t always the costume itself. It’s important to showcase your hard work by performing with passion, skill, and a few tricks! And while some of these are usually kept secret… not for long!
Lecture by Prepare for Trouble - Make It Double!
https://www.instagram.com/double.trouble.cosplay_
Curious about what goes into judging a cosplay competition? Join our Cosplay Judges Q&A Panel for an inside look at the process! Our experienced judges will break down what they look for when evaluating craftsmanship, character accuracy, creativity, and stage presence.
But that’s not all — judges will also share their personal cosplay stories, from how they got started in the community to career highlights, travel experiences, and more. It’s a great chance to ask your burning questions, get expert tips, and learn how to take your cosplay to the next level.
Don’t miss this chance to get inspired and gain valuable insights from the pros!
Judges: Dishycrafts, Miss Olive and Luciotic
Interviewer: Ilya
A beginner-friendly talk about miniature painting — perfect if you’ve never tried it but want to get started. We’ll cover the basics: the tools you actually need (and the ones you can skip at first), types of paints, painting techniques, and the small details that make a big difference.
Lecture by Aleksandr
https://www.instagram.com/alekscreations/
Join our on-site art contest and put your creativity to the test! Bring your own supplies or use ours, and create artwork based on a given prompt. Entries will be judged, and one winner will be chosen per contest. The award ceremony will take place on the Small Stage on Sunday, where participants can also collect their drawings after the ceremony. Don’t miss your chance to showcase your talent!
Curious about corset making but not sure where to start? This lecture will cover how to choose tools and materials, read patterns, learn basic corset sewing methods, and avoid common mistakes as a first-time corset maker.
Lecture by Panthemohn
https://www.instagram.com/Panthemohn
Curious about corset making but not sure where to start? This lecture will cover how to choose tools and materials, read patterns, learn basic corset sewing methods, and avoid common mistakes as a first-time corset maker.
Lecture by Panthemohn
https://www.instagram.com/Panthemohn
A brief introduction to Japanese language and calligraphy.
Join us to learn some Halloween and spooky themed words and even how to write them in Japanese.
Workshop by TLU Japanese Club
https://www.instagram.com/tlujpn/
We warmly welcome fans of Grandmaster of Demonic Cultivation, Heaven Official’s Blessing and Scum-Villain’s Self-Saving System and their adaptations for a small quiz and fun socializing.
Meetup hosted by HaldjasHelina
Have you ever seen someone with grey facepaint, candycorn horns, and astrology signs on their shirt? Have you ever wondered what those weird massive cartoonish weapon props are? Why are there so many of them? Help, help me—they’re getting closer! They’re here! They always have been. Now you will LET THEM TELL YOU ABOUT HOMESTUCK.
Join Karu for waaaaay too short a time to finally learn: what even is Homestuck? What’s happening with it in the current year? How would one even BEGIN getting into this massive, infamous fandom? And for the already initiated, you’ll also hear an array of excellent recommendations for post-canon fan projects to enjoy—keeping the ‘home’ in you stuck where it belongs.
Lecture by Karu libakary
https://www.instagram.com/libakary
alright clowns, time to rise from the dead like it’s 4/13. got horns? hoodie? some questionable cosplay wig from 2011? bring it. we’ll talk sburb disasters, troll drama, ships that should never have happened, and maybe cry over act 6 (again). quizzes? yes. random yelling about paradox space? also yes.
new here? cool. homestuck is an ancient internet relic/webcomic/fever dream about kids playing a game that breaks reality, trolls from space, time travel shenanigans, and way too many plot twists. you don’t have to know the lore — just come vibe. big group photo at the end for all cosplayers + fans!
Meetup hosted by n1cemonday & Freeda_M
-
Leatherworking for Cosplaylecture by Dishycrafts11:00 - 12:00
-
K-POP Solo Competition Block 212:00 - 13:00
-
K-POP Dance Workshop by Henna13:00 - 14:00
-
Ämblik-deemonid "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no yaiba" näitellecture by Margit Juurikas (in Estonian)14:00 - 15:00
-
Basics of Bike Culture by the motorcycle club Wild Souls15:00 - 16:00
-
K-POP Random Dance!16:00 - 17:00
-
Small Hall Awards Ceremony17:00 - 18:00
-
Karaoke18:00 - 20:30
-
The Art of Not Winninglecture by Shinzo11:00 - 12:00
-
Loving and Hating "Twilight": The Fan Culture You Just Can't Escapelecture by Annely Kasela12:00 - 13:00
-
Frills & Finds: Shopping Lolita Onlinelecture by Mariliis and Vamps13:00 - 14:00
-
Ace Attorney with an Attorneylecture by life_is_handsome14:00 - 15:00
-
How to Make a Cosplay Build Booklecture by Sleepy Moth15:00 - 16:00
-
The Art of Performance by Cosplay Veteranslecture by Prepare for Trouble - Make It Double!16:00 - 17:00
-
Cosplay Judges Q&A17:00 - 18:00
-
TBA11:00 - 12:00
-
Introduction to the Miniature Painting Hobbylecture by Aleksandr12:00 - 13:00
-
Art Contest13:00 - 14:00
-
Easy Patterning for Beginnerslecture by Elison14:00 - 15:00
-
Beginner's Guide to Corsetslecture by Panthemohn15:00 - 16:00
-
Spooky Japanese Language and Calligraphy Workshopworkshop by TLU Japanese Club16:00 - 17:00