Last weekend, hundreds of people gathered at the Ukrainian American Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to celebrate the rich culture and history of Ukraine. The traditional annual two-day festival featured a diverse program. It included dance workshops, musical performances, delicious Ukrainian cuisine, and an auction to support the Ukrainian military.
This was reported on the festival's website.
The first day of the festival began with an exciting dance party with live music from UVB and a guest DJ. Guests not only had the opportunity to relax, but also to participate in a master class by the Cheremosh dance ensemble. Delicious Ukrainian cuisine and a wide selection of drinks in the beer garden completed the holiday atmosphere. A special highlight of the first day was a charity fundraiser - everyone could make a donation to the Protez Foundation.
"My heartfelt thanks to the Ukrainian Heritage Festival. We had an incredible opportunity to share the Foundation's story at the Ukrainian Heritage Festival in Minnesota. We are grateful to the festival organizers and all the volunteers who worked tirelessly to make this event such a success. Their support is critical to raising the funds needed to continue our mission of providing prosthetic limbs to brave Ukrainians who have lost limbs in the war. Together, we are not only restoring lives - we are restoring hope and dignity", the Foundation said.
The second day of the festival offered a variety of activities. Visitors had the opportunity to taste authentic Ukrainian dishes, buy products made by Ukrainian craftsmen, watch performances by the Cheremosh dance ensemble and take part in a traditional dumpling eating contest. Special children's entertainment was organized for the youngest guests. Cultural exhibitions and stands of Ukrainian humanitarian organizations allowed guests to learn more about the history and present of Ukraine. Master classes in Ukrainian handicrafts added a special flavor to the festival, where everyone could try their hand at being a potter, embroiderer, or artist.
The festival culminated with a performance by Antytila, after which participants and guests had the opportunity to watch a documentary about the struggle of the Ukrainian people, listen to acoustic performances of the band's hits, and participate in a live chat with the musicians. Guests were particularly interested in the auction of unique items, the proceeds of which will be used to support the Ukrainian military.
Author: Inna Mikhno