The first signs of the Soviet empire being on the way to collapse were gradually appearing in society. A process that had never been seen before had been launched in the Soviet Union and it became known as Gorbachev's perestroika in the world. Even though the festival was still held to praise the USSR (groups of war veterans performed as separate units, everybody was ordered to carry portraits of members of the Politburo of the CPSU Central Committee during the festival parade), it was obvious that the authorities were trying to suppress national feelings.

HONORARY CONDUCTORS:	Gustav Ernesaks, Richard Ritsing, Jüri Variste, Lembit Verlin.
CHIEF CONDUCTORS:	Kuno Areng, Uno Järvela, Heino Kaljuste, Venno Laul, Erich Loit, Vello Loogna, Leho Muldre, Olev Oja, Arvo Ratassepp, Alo Ritsing, Ants Sööt, Vaike Uibopuu, Uno Uiga, Ants Üleoja.

677 choirs and orchestras with 26,437 singers-musicians took part in the festival. 21 choirs of war veterans also participated in the festival. Guests also included 13 choirs from the USSR and one from the German Democratic Republic.