Thousands of Miles for Magic: Minnesota Celebrates Ivan Kupala in Ukrainian Style

One of the most vibrant Ukrainian festivals in honor of Ivan Kupala Day took place at Wild River State Park in Minnesota. Participants gathered to celebrate the summer solstice as part of the annual IKMN25 festival. The celebration brought together hundreds of people from across America. Some guests traveled thousands of miles to join the community and celebrate ancient traditions in nature.

This was reported by Ukrainian Village Band and Stand With Ukraine MN.

Over the course of three days, visitors could camp, participate in round dances, jump over fires, weave wreaths, sing Kupala songs, and dance. The program began with a musical jam session around the campfire. This was followed by the first master classes in Ukrainian music. In the evening, there was open musical improvisation around the bonfire. 

The second day featured dance and vocal master classes, performances of Kupala songs with folk singer Inna Kovtun, folk dances, and instrumental performances by the Ukrainian Village Band.

In the afternoon, preparations began for the main event: the traditional Kupala ceremonies. Participants created effigies of Kupala and Marena, wove flower wreaths, and enjoyed performances by Petro Bachan and DJ Maximor. This was followed by the symbolic "marriage" of Kupala and Marena, a modern interpretation of an ancient rite.

Dinner was a communal feast featuring shurpa, a Crimean Tatar broth soup, as one of the main dishes. It was served as a sign of solidarity with the Crimean Tatars and their call for the deoccupation of Crimea. Afterwards, the procession headed to the river, where the traditional burning of an effigy, jumping over bonfires, and dancing concluded the event. 

"We drove 1,300 miles—10 hours a day for two days—to take part in this special, traditional celebration in Minneapolis, and you know what? It was absolutely worth it! We spent two days in nature camping, making bonfires, singing, and experiencing unity and the pure energy of a shared spirit. Still doubting that Ukraine can win? It can — and it will," said Marichka Hlyten, one of the participants and a community activist.

This year, the festival was held at Wild River State Park for the first time. This new location provided participants with convenient camping, parking, and recreation facilities. All events took place at the Trail Center site.

The organizers emphasized the importance of preserving traditions, uniting the community, and cultural resistance in the context of a large-scale war. IKMN25 once again proved that Ukrainian identity is alive and capable of uniting people regardless of borders.