During the press conference following their victory at the UMK music competition, a peculiar situation unfolded when winner Pete Parkkonen had to ask for champagne or any drink for himself and fellow winner Linda Lampenius. The lack of champagne raised eyebrows as it is customary in similar celebratory events. Instead of the traditional bubbly, they were served water, which sparked discussions about proper etiquette in awarding ceremonies, particularly why the winners weren't provided with celebratory drinks.

Wine expert and champagne specialist Essi Avellan commented on the situation, highlighting the expectation that winners at such events should be treated to champagne. She noted that while it's not obligatory, it is a common tradition especially for awards ceremonies, and Parkkonen's request underscored a noticeable gap in preparation that some attendees might have interpreted as a misstep in event planning. The absence of champagne could potentially diminish the celebratory atmosphere typically fostered in these types of achievements.

After receiving drinks, the winners made a toast with their glasses of water, which also caught the attention of some in the crowd. The fact that they were toasting with water rather than champagne was cited by many as an amusing yet unfortunate contrast to the occasion. This incident not only highlights the importance of proper planning for event organizers but also reflects broader cultural norms surrounding celebrations of achievement in Finland, suggesting that even small details can significantly impact public perception during high-profile events like UMK.