Saratoga, California hosted a festive event called "Ukrainian Christmas" organized by the Ukrainian Women's League of America (UNWLA) Branch 107. Held at Immanuel Lutheran Church, the event gathered a large number of guests and combined music, crafts and art, showcasing talented people and their love of Ukrainian culture. The goal of the event was not only to create a festive atmosphere, but also to support humanitarian initiatives in Ukraine.
This was reported by the organizer of the event, UNWLA Branch 107 on the Facebook
The event lasted all day and offered guests a variety of entertainment. The festive fair was one of the main places where visitors could purchase unique Ukrainian products, souvenirs, traditional dishes, as well as taste wine and snacks provided by sponsors Summerwood Winery, Uphill Vineyards and House Family Vineyards.
The event was highlighted by master classes in Easter egg painting, led by Sofia Ogorodnyk, and Ukrainian fabric printing. Unique handmade products were available for purchase, including traditional wooden toys and jewelry made from safe materials by Yavorivska Zabavka, products in the style of Krolevets weaving, and traditional Hutsul dishes.
The festival also included an exhibition of works by contemporary artists, such as Julia Kosivchuk and Inna Pavlova, who paints oil paintings of California landscapes.
The festive program included a performance by the Ukrainian dance ensemble Leleka. There was also a carol concert performed by local singers Olena Parasyuk-Zasun, Tetiana Akhmednova, Vadym Pryschepov and Natalia Karpenko. Among the musical performances you could enjoy the playing and singing of the wonderful mother-daughter vocal duo Ivanna and Yulia Filipenko. The musical family of Konstantin and Clara also prepared warm and melodious performances. Among the instrumental performances were the professional cello playing of Dylan Wojsiat and a performance by the talented violinist Julia Houk, who grew up in a musical Ukrainian family and embodied her love of music in her performances.
As part of the festive event, children had the opportunity to meet St. Nicholas, take part in various festive activities and master classes, and listen to the fairy tale of the Little Mitten. As a souvenir of the event, families had the opportunity to have their photos taken by professional photographer Iryna Novoselova.
"Ukrainian Christmas also became an important charity event. A silent auction was organized for adults, where unique items and gifts were among the lots. All funds raised will be used to support UNWLA's humanitarian projects, including medical care for war victims and treatment of children with burns in Ukraine.
Organizers emphasized that such an event is an important step in preserving cultural heritage, uniting the community, and supporting Ukrainians in need.
"This is not only a festive event, but also an opportunity to show the beauty of Ukrainian culture, unite the community and help those in need," said UNWLA representatives.
Guests at the event also shared their impressions.
"This festive event was another proof of the strength of our community, which preserves its faith, culture and traditions even in times of great challenges. A special moment of the event was a concert with the participation of children and adults. Their performances, full of sincerity and inspiration, created a true Christmas atmosphere and gave unforgettable emotions. A pleasant and important moment was the presence of the local authorities. Their presence is a sign that our struggle and desire for peace resonate in the hearts of the people of the United States," says Roman Bobesiuk. (Roman Bobesiuk).
Author: Inna Mikhno