In Chicago, the final Rozkoliada took place, summing up the Christmas season of Ukrainian vertep performances and charity appearances across the city and suburbs. For the fourth year in a row, caroling in the diaspora has become not only a cultural event, but a form of systematic support for Ukraine and its Defense Forces, uniting the community around shared responsibility.
This was reported by Radio UA Chicago.
This season, the team of the Ukrainian Daughters Foundation held 36 performances, covered 378 miles between locations, and raised $44,000 to support the Armed Forces of Ukraine. An additional $13,000 was collected during the final Rozkoliada event. Preparations began back in November: for nearly three months, volunteers balanced work, family responsibilities, and daily rehearsals, while creating costumes, props, and performance logistics. From December 20 to January 10, most participants effectively gave up holidays and days off, consciously investing their time in a common cause.
In the vertep, everyone had a role: crafting stars, writing the poetic script, and managing everyday needs to sustain the intense schedule. This horizontal collaboration, without formal titles, fostered a true sense of community.
A distinctive feature of this year’s program was the modern content embedded in a traditional form. Wings on the costumes carried portraits and quotes of fallen Ukrainian heroes. The final carol was “Khto mae vukha” (“He Who Has Ears”), written by Ukrainian serviceman Pavlo Didula. The star bore the inscription Free Azovstal Defenders along with calls to maintain civic engagement and Ukraine’s informational presence in the world.
The final Rozkoliada took place at Eventus Hall and gathered about 200 attendees — the hall was completely full. Performers included the bandura trio Alvia, the traditional instrumental ensemble Vodohrai, Mykola Stefuriak on the tsymbaly, and Marta-Sofiia Fraser.
The most vivid moment of the evening was the appearance of Malanka in Bukovynian tradition — with the Bear, Vasyl, and generous treats for the audience. The performance turned into a lively folk spectacle with improvisation, humor, and direct interaction with guests in the hall. Laughter, applause, and full audience engagement became the evening’s culmination.
The team had only two weeks to prepare the final event — a last push after an intense caroling season. This concentration of effort created a genuine festive atmosphere and brought the winter cycle to a bright close.
The organizers emphasize that at a time when society grows weary of constant тревога and difficult news, such initiatives carry meaning beyond fundraising. They restore a sense of unity, sustain living dialogue, and remind us that culture is a form of responsibility. Rozkoliada in Chicago once again showed that even far from home, the Ukrainian community is capable of keeping the light — quietly, consistently, and together.
Photo: Radio UA Chicago
Author: Danylo Pievchev