This year marks the 25th anniversary of Ukraine’s Declaration of Independence from the USSR. It is also the 125th anniversary of the first arrival of Ukrainians to Canada in 1891.
To highlight these two important anniversaries, Alberta’s Ukrainian community is hosting Sviato 25, a celebration of song, dance and prayer tomorrow at Churchill Square.
The one-day event running from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. features a number of highlights with close to 30 local performing groups including bands, singers, choral groups and dancers.
“This is the largest outdoor celebration of Ukraine’s arts, culture and spirituality in the history of the province,” said volunteer executive producer Gene Zwozdesky.
One of the major highlights is the appearance of Ruslana, heralded as the “Heroine of Ukraine.” She will sing and discuss Ukraine’s issues.
“She is Ukraine’s Madonna. She is the single largest selling singer in Ukraine and there have been many. She has been so busy, it was hard to get her out of the European continent,” Zwozdesky noted.
At 5 p.m. there is a prayer service with both Catholic and Orthodox religious leaders attending as well as 100 representatives from religious lay organizations.
The celebration also features four Kozaks riding horses. Considered freedom fighters or skilled horsemen, they will form an honour guard during the prayer service.
Closing the ceremonies is the world’s largest Ukrainian circle dance and the lighting of the High Level Bridge in Ukraine’s national colours – blue and yellow.
“This is an event that captures every human emotion possible and reflects the heart and soul of Ukraine.”
