Ukrainian communities in different parts of the USA have prepared a rich program for the 34th anniversary of Ukraine's Independence. From sports races in Washington and California to concerts, picnics and marches with flags - each event unites Ukrainians and friends of Ukraine, supports the national spirit and collects aid for the defenders.
Each community offers its own format of celebration: morning runs in embroidered shirts, crowded festivals with Ukrainian music and cuisine, a march with a giant flag in Washington, a climb to the top of Mission Peak in California or a concert in a San Francisco park. The main thing remains common - unity and support for Ukraine in its struggle.
Vyshyvanka Run in Washington
On August 23, the traditional Vyshyvanka Run, organized by United Help Ukraine together with the local Ukrainian community, was will take place in the US capital. The event starts from Fishmarket Square (3255 Grace St NW). Registration for participants will take place from 8:00 to 9:00, after which the race will begin at 9:00. Participants will be able to choose a distance of 1 km or 5 km, overcome it by running, walking or walking - most importantly, in a vyshyvanka. This is an annual event, initiated by enthusiast Henryk Karpynsky, which has already become a symbol of unity and pride. Organizers also call on those who wish to join to volunteer.
B-More Ukrainian Independence Day in Baltimore
In Baltimore, Maryland, on August 23, the Baltimore Peninsula will turn into the center of the Ukrainian holiday. From 12:00 to 22:00 there will be will take place B-More Ukrainian Independence Food Day - a large-scale event with live music, performances by artists, traditional cuisine and drinks. Organizers promise a warm atmosphere of Ukrainian friendship, where you can spend time with family and friends, get to know other members of the community and feel the spirit of unity. Admission is free, everyone is welcome to participate.
March and Concert in Washington by US Ukrainian Activists
On August 24, a large-scale celebration organized by US Ukrainian Activists led by Nadia Shaporynska will take place in downtown Washington. The program will begin at 4:30 PM in front of the White House with a rally and speeches. After that, at 6:30 PM, participants will march with a giant Ukrainian flag to the Taras Shevchenko Monument, where a concert with music, poetry, and dance will take place from 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM. This tradition began in 2022 and has since brought together Ukrainians and friends of Ukraine every year to celebrate independence and fight against Russian aggression.
Picnic in Silver Spring
In Cloverley, Maryland, on August 24, the Saint Andrews Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral and the Washington Ukrainian Humanitarian Center invite you to a picnic in Silver Spring (15100 New Hampshire Ave). Starts at 12:30. The program includes prayer, children's performances, music and a fundraiser for turnstiles for Ukrainian defenders. Attendees will be treated to hot dogs, burgers and drinks. The suggested donation is $20. Organizers emphasize that supporting Ukraine is especially important now, and every presence and every donation matters.
Hike to Mission Peak in California
On August 24, the Ukrainian National Women's League of America, Branch 107, is organizing a symbolic hike to Mission Peak in Fremont, California. Gathering at 7:30 a.m. near Ohlone College. Participants will cover 7.3 miles of a difficult route, which takes an average of more than 4 hours. They are asked to bring Ukrainian flags for a group photo at the top. Due to repair work, the start of the route has been slightly shifted, which the organizers warn about in advance. This is an event for those who want to combine sports, nature and the celebration of Independence.
Ukraine’s Freedom Run in Santa Monica
Also on August 24 in Santa Monica, California, the third annual “Ukraine’s Freedom Run: Independence Day Bound” will take place Runners will start from Public Parking South 5 and finish at the Santa Monica Pier. Organizers from the Stand With Ukraine Foundation encourage participants to wear blue and yellow, bring flags and friends. After the run, everyone will be treated to a light breakfast from Zori Gastrobar. The main goal of the event is to raise funds for 250 turnstiles for the defenders of Ukraine.
Celebration with a bonfire and music
Another celebration will take place on August 24 in San Diego in the format of a party with a bonfire and Ukrainian music. Organizers are House of Ukraine and Shield of Freedom. Guests can expect Ukrainian dishes, a performance by the band Vydelka, children's entertainment, and a cozy atmosphere. Tickets are on sale online until August 23, prices vary: for adults - from $30 to $35, for children - from $10 to $15. The number of tickets is limited, so organizers advise buying in advance.
Concert in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco
In San Francisco, on August 24, the 26th annual Ukrainian-American Friendship Concert will take place at the Golden Gate Park Summer Theater (Spreckels Temple of Music). The event is organized by the Ukrainian American Coordinating Council in cooperation with a number of Ukrainian organizations in the region. The program includes performances by the best Ukrainian singers and artists of Northern California. Admission is free for all. The concert has become a traditional event that annually gathers hundreds of participants and introduces Americans to Ukrainian culture.
Chicago Mega March
On August 24, the Ukrainian Congressional Committee of America, Illinois Chapter, invites the community to participate in a Mega March dedicated to the 34th anniversary of Ukraine’s Independence. The march will begin at 2:00 p.m. at Congress Plaza Garden (501 S. Michigan Ave) and will conclude at the west end of the Riverwalk (Upper Wacker & Orleans/Franklin), where a celebratory program will be held. Organizers are calling on Ukrainians of all generations to join the action and take to the streets of Chicago with national flags.
Celebration in Kansas City
In Prairie Village, Kansas, on August 24, Stand with Ukraine KC is organizing a celebration at Harmon Park Pavilion. From 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., visitors will be able to enjoy Ukrainian music and dance, taste authentic cuisine, view cultural exhibits, and participate in children’s activities. The event is free and open to all. The organizers promise an atmosphere of unity and support for Ukraine.
Independence Day in Brighton and Ivan Pylypets' performance
In Brighton, Michigan, the organization "New Wave" invites to the celebration of "Ukraine through the Ages..." at the Dibrov residence. The program will begin on August 24 with football matches and a church service, followed by Ukrainian food and children's entertainment. At 4:00 p.m., a concert will begin with the participation of the ensemble "Brevis", the theater studio "Melpomene" and Honored Artist of Ukraine Ivan Pylypets. The second part of the concert with his performance will begin at 6:00 p.m. A charity lottery is also planned.
Rally in Support of Ukraine in Detroit
On August 24 at 1:00 p.m., Helping Hands for Ukraine will hold a Rally in Support of Ukraine at the Joe Louis Monument in Detroit. Participants will gather to express solidarity with the people of Ukraine, who are fighting for freedom and sovereignty. The event is designed to unite Ukrainians and Americans in the pursuit of justice and peace.
Tryzub Festival in Pennsylvania
The annual Tryzub Ukrainian Folk Festival will take place in Horsham, Pennsylvania, on August 24. The celebration will be held at the Ukrainian American Sport Center "Tryzub" (County Line & Lower State Roads). From 12:00 to 8:00 p.m., guests will be treated to a rich program of concerts, performances by dance and music ensembles, demonstrations of folk crafts, master classes and Ukrainian cuisine. The concert program will feature the ensembles Voloshky, Spirit of the Dance, singer Iryna Lonchyna, violinist Inessa Tymotsko Dekaylo and other artists. Admission is $20, with part of the proceeds going to aid Ukraine.
Celebrations in Sacramento
Ukrainian American House is organizing two events in the California capital on August 24. In the morning, the Freedom Means Business business forum will take place (10:00–14:00, Kimpton Sawyer Hotel), where diplomats, entrepreneurs and veterans will perform. In the evening, from 19:00 to 21:00, a free concert by the Kazka band will be held on the square near the State Capitol. The events will be held in partnership with the Consulate General of Ukraine in San Francisco, the U.S.-Ukraine Business Council and the California National Guard.
Picnic in Irvine
In Irvine, California, on August 24, the community will 24 серпня громада celebrate Independence Day at William R. Mason Regional Park. The event will be a potluck, with everyone bringing their favorite dishes. The program will include performances by children from the Ukrainian School of Orange County, concerts by local artists, children's entertainment and live music. Tickets are available online, and the proceeds will go to the needs of the community and support of Ukraine.
Ukrainian Day Festival in Portland
In Portland, Oregon, the Ukrainian Foundation invites to a traditional celebration in Westmoreland Park. Each year, the festival gathers thousands of participants who come to enjoy Ukrainian music, dance, cuisine, workshops and a folk craft fair. The program includes contests, games for children and various cultural activities. The event has already become a visiting card of Ukrainians in Portland.
Picnic in Seattle
A Ukrainian Community Picnic will take place on August 24th from 12:00 to 20:00 at Alki Beach in Seattle, Washington. The program includes Ukrainian barbecue, musical performances, dance workshops and games for children. Organizers are asking people to bring blankets for the picnic and to help raise funds for humanitarian needs in Ukraine. The event is organized by the Ukrainian Association of Washington State, Ukraine Defense Support and Ukrainian Cultural Center Toloka.
Author: Danylo Pievchev