The Ukrainian diaspora in the United States came together to celebrate Ivan Kupala and support the Ukrainian Armed Forces. On 30 June, a fundraising event was held in Wheeling, Illinois, organised by the Support Ukraine event volunteer team in partnership with U4U Business.
The event brought together around 600 guests and aimed not only to preserve and promote Ukrainian traditions, but also to support the Ukrainian military.
"At this time we must support our heroes. But it is equally important to show our culture and shout to the world: 'We are Ukrainians! We are here, we have our culture, our traditions, our language! It's also a great opportunity for young Ukrainian businesses in the US to make themselves known. Our event is family friendly. We wanted to create an atmosphere where parents could relax, taste Ukrainian food, and children could have fun playing games with animators. At the event, we made wreaths and sang Kupala songs", Solomiia Klymiuk, one of the organisers of the Support Ukraine event, told Vilni. Solomiia Klymiuk.
The festival was divided into several zones, including a fair of Ukrainian brands with souvenirs, embroidered shirts and handmade products; master classes in wreath weaving, pottery, thread flower making and drawing; Kupala dances and competitions; and a rich concert programme with performances. Food and drink were also available.
Admission to the festival was free on a donation basis - all funds raised will be donated to the Ukrainian Armed Forces for the purchase of FPV drones. The organisers would like to thank everyone who took part in Kupala Fest!
"Thanks to the participants and guests of Kupala Fest we have collected $7756. We have managed to completely close the collection of the 36th Brigade of the Apostle Peter's Couriers. Therefore, we are sending the remaining funds to cover the needs of the 5th Brigade. We are very grateful to everyone who spent this day with us. We are restoring Ukrainian traditions and donating for the sake of victory", said Solomiia Klymiuk.
The Kupala Fest charity event united Ukrainians in the United States and raised $7756 for the needs of the 36th Brigade "Apostle Peter's Couriers" and the 5th Separate Assault Brigade.
The event was attended by 600 guests. Organised by volunteers from Support Ukraine event and U4U Business, the festival combined Kupala traditions, delicious food, entertainment, interesting workshops and a concert programme.
"The Kupala Festival was a great opportunity for Ukrainians to feel united, learn about authentic traditions and songs, and support Ukrainian businesses.