The 50th anniversary Ukrainian festival, dedicated to the 35th anniversary of Ukraine's independence, took place in Newtown, Connecticut. The event brought together hundreds of members of the Ukrainian community, clergy, artists, volunteers, military personnel, and American officials.
This was reported by the Bridgeport Branch 73 of the Ukrainian National Women's League of America (UNWLA)and SUMA Federal Credit Union.
On September 6, at Paproski’s Castle Hill Farm in Newtown, the parish of the Protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church in Bridgeport—led by Fr. Ivan Mazuryk—hosted its traditional Ukrainian picnic. This year, the event honored both the 35th anniversary of Ukraine's independence and the festival's own 50th anniversary.
The celebration began with the Divine Liturgy and a joint prayer for Ukraine, its defenders, peace, and victory. Throughout the day, guests enjoyed Ukrainian music, dancing, a concert program, children's activities, traditional cuisine, a charity raffle, and the opportunity to socialize with members of the Ukrainian community.
Singer OLICHKA hosted the concert program, while Viktor Kit organized the musical accompaniment, featuring Oleksandr Bratashchuk from the band "Zabava." Performers on stage included the "Kalynonka" dance ensemble, Denys Shushura, Marharyta Kuzina, Nadiia Solska, members of the Stamford CYM (Ukrainian Youth Association) branch, young artists from New Haven, Honored Artist of Ukraine Iryna Lonchynia, and Honored Artist of Variety Art of Ukraine Viktor Sydir.
A highlight of the festival was a charity photo booth organized by Branch 73 of the Ukrainian National Women's League of America (UNWLA). Proceeds from the event will support the NGO "Zemliachky," an organization dedicated to assisting Ukrainian servicewomen.
Representatives from "Our Foundation" (Our Organizing Ukraine Relief Foundation) and Ukrainian military personnel also participated in the event. U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut attended as a guest of honor; he had recently returned from a trip to Ukraine, during which he met with Ukrainian troops and community members.
During the festival, organizers also honored the Paprocky family, who have generously made their farm available for this Ukrainian celebration for many years.
The organizers expressed their gratitude to the event's major sponsors—including Splash Vacation Properties, Selfreliance Federal Credit Union, Kuper Candles, KUPER Photo Studio, Julia Kuper, and UAartsy—as well as to all the volunteers, donors, performers, and partners who helped make this milestone festival a success.
Community members note that the tradition of the Ukrainian picnic was initiated by Olha Paprocka half a century ago. Following her passing, her children—Stepan and Gloria Paprocky—continued the legacy alongside their own families. This year, Stefan and Diana Paprocki also celebrated their 39th wedding anniversary; parishioners offered their congratulations, and Fr. Ivan Mazuryk bestowed a blessing upon them.
Today, the festival remains one of the largest annual Ukrainian community events in Connecticut, uniting Ukrainians through culture, faith, charity, and support for Ukraine.
Photo: Oksana Lukiv, Olga Olichka
Author: Inna Mikhno