The Voloshky Ukrainian Dance Ensemble performs Vesnianka, a spring song, at the 2024 Ukrainian Folk Festival in Horsham. John Worthington | Media News Group
Thousands got a glimpse into Ukraine’s rich culture Sunday afternoon as the 2024 Ukrainian Folk Festival entertained with music, dance, food and arts.
Held at the Ukrainian American Sport Center, the festival celebrated the 33rd anniversary of Ukraine’s independence following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Youth dance troupes dazzled attendees with performances of Ukrainian folk dances, including the HOPAK and the Kolomiyka, while food vendors served a number of ethnic foods, including borscht and kulish.
The vendor’s grove featured a colorful selection of Ukrainian consumer foods, including embroidered shirts, biblical paintings and pysankas (intricately-decorated Ukrainian Easter eggs), as well as displays from several Ukrainian organizations and charities.
Kulish (millet pooridge) is cooked over an open fire.The celebration comes over two years after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Leading up to the dance performances, speakers took to the main stage to send a message of hope and solidarity.
“On this joyous event and holiday, we allow ourselves to have hope and joy for a reborn Ukraine that will continue to celebrate her independence for years to come,” said festival organizer Natalia Tarasiuk.
“We will celebrate, but we will show the world who we are. Ukraine is under a fierce attack. Ukraine’s defenders continue the fight, but we lose many of them,” said festival organizer Gene Luciw.
Ukrainian apparel is sold.
Attendees gather around the main stage.Representatives from Pennsylvania’s congressional delegation also spoke, underscoring a firm commitment to Ukraine’s defense.
“Senator Casey has worked to secure over $175 billion in supporting the Ukrainian people, including humanitarian and governmental support,” said Teresa Dennis, state director for Senator Bob Casey. “He is committed to making sure Ukraine has all the resources it needs to win this war and defend its territory.”
“There continues to be some Congress members who question our assistance and alliance to Ukraine. But look at the last few weeks. Ukraine has proven that they can win this war and that they are still in this fight,” said Kyle Melander, district director for Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick, R-1st Dist. “You can count on Congressman Fitzpatrick to push back on the dissenting voices in the House of Representatives.”
Teresa Dennis, state director for Senator Bob Casey, speaks at the 2024 Ukrainian Folk Festival.
The Soloveiky Choir performs the Ukrainian national anthem.“We have so much to be proud of as ambassadors of this beautiful culture whose people demonstrate fierce independence, not just today but every single day,” said Tarasiuk.
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The Ukrainian Dance Co. of Toronto performs.
