In early August, the city of Parma, Ohio, transformed into a center of Ukrainian culture and traditions. The Pokrova Ukrainian Greek Catholic Parish held its 25th annual summer festival, which became a true celebration for the local community and guests from across the region. This year’s anniversary “silver” festival attracted thousands of visitors and reaffirmed its status as the largest ethnic event in Northeast Ohio.
Over the course of three days, guests were treated to traditional Ukrainian dishes: at the “Cossack Kitchen” they served varenyky (pierogies), borshch, holubtsi (stuffed cabbage rolls), deruny (potato pancakes), homemade kovbasa (sausage), chebureky (fried meat pies), cakes, and other sweets. These delicacies could be paired with Ukrainian and American beer, wine, and stronger beverages. The atmosphere was enriched by the smell of freshly baked bread, the aroma of smoked meats, and the friendliness of the volunteers working in the kitchen.
The cultural program was rich and diverse. The stage featured performances by the “Kashtan” Dance Ensemble from Parma and special guests — the “Vyshyvanka” School of Dance from Chicago. Live music filled the air, thematic concerts took place, and on Sunday, the outdoor pavilion hosted a talent show and karaoke. Local musicians and invited performers delighted the audience with both well-known Ukrainian folk melodies and contemporary compositions.
Special attention was given by the organizers to family entertainment. For the youngest visitors, there was the Kids Korner with face painting, workshops, games, and bounce houses. Sports enthusiasts could take part in soccer and volleyball tournaments, which were held on Saturday and Sunday and attracted many spectators.
Another important part of the festival was the large Ukrainian bazaar. Here, visitors could purchase embroidered shirts, jewelry, handcrafted items, paintings, pysanky (Ukrainian Easter eggs), books, souvenirs, and other unique goods. Vendors and artisans came not only from Ohio but also from other states, offering festival guests a wide selection of authentic products.
Traditionally, the festival concluded with a large cash raffle. This year, the grand prize was $2,000, with two additional prizes of $500 each and five prizes of $100. Any adult could participate in the drawing by purchasing a raffle ticket directly at the festival.
Admission to all events was free, and free parking was provided for guests. According to the organizers, the main goal of the festival was not only to bring the community together but also to showcase the richness of Ukrainian culture to those unfamiliar with it. Everyone was welcomed as family, regardless of their background, and, as locals like to joke, even if you arrived without Ukrainian roots, you left for home as an “honorary Ukrainian.”
The anniversary Pokrova Festival in Parma once again proved that the Ukrainian community in Ohio is strong, united, and open to the world. The organizers have already begun preparing for next year, promising even more surprises to once again bring together friends and admirers of Ukrainian culture from all over America.
Author: Diana Khudko