The vibrant celebration of Ukrainian culture and community took place in Syracuse, New York, on July 25-26. One of the oldest Ukrainian festivals in the United States, it celebrated its 84th anniversary this year, gathering hundreds of visitors who came to enjoy folk music, dances, and crafts.
This was report Syracuse Ukrainian Festival.
The festival is traditionally held in Tipperary Hill, near Coleman’s, at the Ukrainian Catholic Church of St. John the Baptist, the spiritual center of the Ukrainian community in Syracuse.
"Come hungry, leave inspired" is a slogan that became a reality this year. Festival guests enjoyed more than 20,000 pies, 2,000 cabbage rolls, 1,600 sausages, 1,000 portions of barbecue, and hundreds of poppy seed rolls. The festival introduced new flavors this year: pork and chicken kebabs, classic "four pies," and a separate stand with sweet treats. There is also a children's zone with ice cream, cotton candy, coloring mats, and face painting.
"The festival is a great opportunity to learn about Ukrainian culture and enjoy a fun-filled weekend with friends and family," the organizers noted.
On the first day of the festival, the stage belonged to the church choir, Kalyna Band, Nazar Yavoriv, the Odesa Dance Ensemble, Gutsul Huligan, and Sound Life. The next day, Ukrainian singer Vasyl Melnykovych joined them.
"There is always a lot of energy at the festival. There is a lot of noise at Tipp Hill. For us, as performers, it is exciting,” an Odessa ensemble member shared.
Many of the dancers have participated since childhood and look forward to the festival every year. They are especially excited by the new acrobatic performances, traditional food, and interaction with the community.
The organizers note that the festival is about more than just food and entertainment. It is also an act of cultural remembrance, reminding the world that Ukraine is a vibrant, dignified, and proud nation with centuries-old traditions.
Photo: Ryann Phillips, Syracuse Ukrainian Festival
Author: Inna Mikhno