In the state of Georgia, a large-scale celebration of Ukrainian culture called “BorschtFest” brought together the community, hundreds of participants, and six Slavic churches around traditional food, prayer, and support for Ukraine. Attendees cooked the iconic Ukrainian dish — borscht — using family recipes, sang, prayed, and raised funds for those affected by the war. A friendly boat race on a lake became a special part of the event.
This was reported by Lighthouse Atlanta.
The festival united six Slavic churches from Georgia, each preparing borscht according to their own family traditions. The dish — a symbol of home and childhood for many — was cooked outdoors. Throughout the day, Ukrainian songs and prayers for peace echoed as participants collected donations to support those impacted by the war in Ukraine. A symbolic regatta on the lake — a friendly competition — captured the spirit of unity, mutual support, and shared mission.
“BorschtFest was a true blessing and a vivid example of how culture, faith, and service can merge into one,” shared Vitalii and Nina Zakharchenko, active participants and leaders of the Lighthouse Church and Sports Chaplaincy Mission. “The event united six churches, each bringing their own story to the table through borscht — not just food, but tradition, soul, and family memory. Families came together, shared stories, prayed, and reflected on Ukraine with pain and hope.”
The event was made possible by the efforts of the Lighthouse church community, which has actively supported newly arrived Ukrainians in Georgia for over a decade. The community runs numerous social and educational projects: organizing family gatherings, youth sports activities, English classes, and sending humanitarian aid to Ukraine — including essential items, literature, and volunteer support.
“BorschtFest” became a powerful example of how cultural heritage, mutual aid, and civic engagement among Ukrainians abroad converge in shared initiatives.
“Events like this not only strengthen bonds within the diaspora but also show that even from afar, the Ukrainian community maintains unity and the capacity to come together for meaningful causes,” the organizers emphasized.
Author: Danylo Pievchev
