In the town of Marlboro, New Jersey, the 15th annual Multicultural Day was celebrated, bringing together representatives of diverse cultures and nationalities to embrace the community's diversity. Marlboro’s Multicultural Day has become a significant event for the local community, offering residents the chance to experience the richness of traditions and cultural uniqueness. The Ukrainian community, which took an active part in the event, showcased its traditions and made a remarkable contribution to the overall celebration program. The legendary Ukrainian "Shchedryk" resonated on the festival stage, accompanied by the shining star of the Ukrainian Nativity Play.
The event, hosted at Marlboro High School, raised hundreds of guests who enjoyed four hours of performances, exhibitions, and culinary delights from around the world.
The program included 19 cultural performances, featuring traditional dances, musical acts, and demonstrations of national arts. On stage, visitors witnessed Chinese martial arts, Polish accordion music, and, of course, the performance by the Ukrainian community.
The Ukrainian performance: a festival highlight
The Ukrainian culture was represented by volunteers of the charitable foundation “USA STANDS WITH UKRAINE”, who formed a Ukrainian folk ensemble and presented a traditional Christmas Nativity Play along with the legendary Ukrainian “Shchedryk”.
“The Nativity begins with angels who speak of the war in Ukraine: Russians killing children, the sound of sirens, elderly people freezing without electricity, soldiers battling the cold in trenches, and mothers praying for their children. Yet, even in such difficult times, Ukrainians remain the strongest nation in the world, singing, living, and believing in victory. The angels take the audience into a traditional Ukrainian family, sharing our customs, the symbolism of the Didukh, the twelve dishes, and the magic of "Shchedryk" — a song that has become a global symbol of Christmas. The performance concluded with everyone singing ‘Carol of the Bells’ together”, said Maryna Vlasiuk, President of the Foundation.
The Ukrainian ensemble became a true star of the event. The performance was filled with artistry, cultural traditions, and symbolism.
“The Ukrainian performance became a true gem of the festival, where each participant felt part of a great cause. It was not just an evening of art — it was a message to the world that Ukraine lives, creates, and fights. Every costume, every detail, and every word in our Nativity Play was meticulously designed to juxtapose beauty and tragedy, reminding of the war in Ukraine while showcasing our potential, talent, and resilience. We proudly represented Ukraine, demonstrating its cultural richness and profound spirit”, emphasized the Foundation President.
Music held a special place in the performance. Accordionist Serhiy Kukuruza, flutist Roman Marchuk, and violinists Mykhailo Hnatiuk and Oksana Shevchenko enchanted the audience with their melodies, immersing them in the essence of Ukrainian traditions. Their performance was further enhanced by Broadway stars Zoe Pantelas and a choir group from the Music and Art Academy (Holmdel, NJ) under the direction of Jeff Pantelas.
““Every participant gave their all. We did what we love, and the audience responded with applause. Special thanks came from Marlboro Deputy Mayor Terry Lau, who noted that the Ukrainian ensemble was ‘the highlight of the evening”, said Vlasiuk. заступника мера Марлборо Террі Лау, who відзначив, що український колектив став “родзинкою вечора”, – говорить Власюк.
After the performance, guests were treated to a lavish "Cossack table", symbolizing Ukrainian hospitality. The exquisite buffet, prepared by Olya Samborska, included sweet touches like blue-and-yellow sunflower cookies by Tatyana Filip and lollipops by Zabava Banquet Hall and Catering.
“This evening proved that Ukraine is more than just a country at war. It is a nation with a rich culture, incredible talent, and hospitality capable of uniting and inspiring. All of this is the result of a cohesive team effort, united by love for Ukraine”, Vlasyuk emphasized.
The unity of the Ukrainian spirit
According to her, the goal of participating in such projects is simple yet crucial — to unite Ukrainians, pass cultural knowledge to children, and remind the world of Ukraine's struggle.
“We believe our children learn traditions best by observing us. Additionally, rehearsals and performances have become a kind of therapy for us — a true antidepressant in difficult times. We sing to remind everyone: Ukraine is at war, but we are strong, resilient, and will surely win. Caroling is not only a celebration but also a way to unite people around kindness, culture, and faith in the future”, Vlasiuk explained.
She added that the participants are the true heart of their Nativity Play. Among them are newcomers as well as children discovering Ukrainian traditions through their involvement in the play.
“This year’s lineup changed slightly, but the core group of carolers are experienced performers from last year’s Nativity Play. They include children and adults of various ages, professions, and social backgrounds. Each participant has a unique story. They are volunteers, parents, teachers, businesspeople, and children who have become one big Christmas family. What unites us all? The war. We met through volunteering. Since the war's onset, all participants have contributed in various ways: loading humanitarian trailers, packing supplies at my home, fundraising, or sending warm clothing. When the idea of creating the Nativity Play arose, many people were genuinely inspired by it”, Vlasiuk shared.
She emphasized that the participants sing not only to remind people of Ukraine’s fight but also to unite and bring hope and faith in victory. For the ensemble, it is more than just a performance — it is a symbol of unity, strength, and resilience.
Charitable Caroling
For the second year in a row, the Ukrainian community in New Jersey has come together to create a true Christmas miracle through caroling and the Nativity Play. Participants visit anyone who invites them into their homes with carols.
Moreover, for those involved in the organization, it is not just a joyful celebration or a community event but also an initiative to help those who need it most.
“Last year, our script touched people’s hearts: we raised $5,000, which went toward purchasing medical equipment, humanitarian aid for soldiers, and support for the elderly. We also helped orphans, such as gifting phones for their graduation and funding several educational courses”, Vlasiuk noted.
This year, the group plans to continue the tradition. On December 14, a significant event is planned — the charity evening "Christmas Star of Freedom", featuring friends from Georgia, Lithuania, and Poland. This will be a unique opportunity for Ukrainians in America to enjoy the Christmas atmosphere and showcase the power of unity.
Фото: Jeff Wang
Author: Inna Mikhno