Skeithällä

Skeithällä is a traditional style of seta dancing in the Sami culture of northern Europe. The term "skeithällä" is derived from the Northern Sami language, with "skeinen" meaning "jumping" and "tälla" meaning "tent" or "dwelling".

Skeithällla is a lively and energetic style of seta (Sami people's traditional long dress) dancing that involves rapid-fire footwork and intricate hand movements. It is traditionally performed during Sami festivals and gatherings, such as the Siida festival in Finland. The dance is often performed by groups of women, who wear traditional Sami clothing, including the distinctive seta.

The origins of skeithällla are unclear, but it is believed to have evolved from ancient Sami folk dances. The dance is characterized by fast-paced footwork, which is said to represent the horses that the Sami people used to ride. The intricate hand movements are thought to represent the weaving and textile-making traditions of the Sami people.

Skeithällla is an important part of Sami cultural heritage, and its performance is seen as a way to honor and celebrate the Sami people's traditions and customs. Despite its rich history and cultural significance, the dance has faced challenges in recent years, due in part to the decline of the Sami language and cultural practices. Efforts are being made, however, to preserve and promote the dance, and to pass it down to younger generations.