More than 2,500 people gathered in Denver for the annual Ukrainian Independence Day Festival organized by the Ukrainians of Colorado. This year's event was even more special as the local nonprofit Ukrainians of Colorado celebrated its 10th anniversary. Festival attendees enjoyed authentic Ukrainian food, music and crafts, and raised funds for humanitarian efforts in Ukraine.
This was reported by Ukrainians of Colorado.
"It so happens that today is also the anniversary of our organization, we are 10 years old today. And we are very grateful to Ukrainians, Americans and representatives of other communities who come and support us. And it's very nice to see that every year there are more and more of us", said Iryna Shatalov, co-organizer of the festival.
The organizers prepared Ukrainian music and cuisine for the guests, and also sold souvenirs, artwork and embroidered shirts, as the festival is a traditional way to support one's own culture and each other far from home.
Several events took place during the festival. For example, volunteers from the Ukrainian Church sold sweet pastries on behalf of the Ridna Shkola in Denver, and all the money raised will go to help people in Ukraine. The event also served as a platform for Ukrainian businesses to showcase their products and services to the community. Ukrainian soldiers who came to Colorado for rehabilitation spoke at the event. Interesting entertainment for children was organized.
At the event you could meet both newly arrived Ukrainians and those who emigrated a long time ago but did not forget their culture and roots. By the way, Americans of non-Ukrainian descent also like to attend Ukrainian festivals, especially to taste Ukrainian food. However, American and Polish food was also served at the event.
The amphitheater concert featured music from a variety of genres and talented local artists, including The Nadiya Band. The Denver festival concluded with a performance by Ukrainian ethnic artist Kozak Siromakha. All funds raised at the event will support various humanitarian projects in Ukraine.
Author: Inna Mikhno