In an effort to promote diversity and integration, Estepona is preparing for a Sunday full of color, flavor and Ukrainian tradition. On September 29, the coastal town will be dressed in blue and yellow to celebrate Ukraine Day, an event that promises to be a vibrant showcase of the rich culture of this Eastern European country.
A day to share cultures
The Estepona City Council, through its innovative program Sharing Cultures, has organized this day with the aim of encouraging the participation of foreign residents in the social and cultural life of the city. The deputy mayor of the Extraradio area, Begoña Ortiz, has highlighted the importance of this event as a “unique opportunity” to get to know more closely the Ukrainian neighbors.
Program of activities
The Ukrainian Day will take place from 11:00 to 21:00 hours at 250 España Avenue, in front of the ‘Diario ABC’ square. Attendees will be able to enjoy a varied program that includes:
– Craft market: Opening at 11:30 a.m.
– Children’s workshops: Artistic drawing, doll-making, handicrafts and beadwork
– Culinary Festival ‘Taste of Ukraine’: From 13:30 hrs.
– Art exhibition ‘Ukraine first and foremost’: Starting at 5:00 p.m.
– Gala concert: From 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., with artists, singers and dancers.
Ukraine in Estepona: A growing community
With approximately 2,000 Ukrainians registered, this community is part of the 135 different nationalities that enrich the social fabric of Estepona. Valentyna Bodnar, representative of the Prosvita association, expressed her gratitude to the Town Hall for the support provided and the opportunity to share their culture.
Impact on local integration
This event not only celebrates Ukrainian culture, but also reinforces Estepona’s commitment to integration and diversity. The mayor Begoña Ortiz has emphasized that for the government team is a “priority to strengthen ties with our residents”.
Ukraine Day in Estepona is shaping up to be an unmissable event that promises to immerse attendees in the fascinating Ukrainian culture, from its gastronomy to its folklore, offering an enriching experience for all residents and visitors to the Costa del Sol.
Ukrainian Culture: Ancient Traditions in the Heart of Eastern Europe
Ukrainian culture, a little-explored treasure in the European mosaic, offers a wealth of traditions that have survived the passage of time and the vagaries of history. As a journalist with two decades of experience covering Eastern Europe, I have witnessed the resilience and evolution of these unique customs.
What do you know about Ukrainian culture?
There is nothing more enriching than getting to know our neighbors. Here are some basic aspects of Ukrainian culture in a couple of strokes. These are some of the festivities that mark the rhythm of Ukrainian life
Orthodox Christmas: A Feast of Traditions
The Ukrainian Christmas, celebrated on January 7, is a spectacle of faith and gastronomy. The Sviata Vecheria, or Sacred Supper, brings entire families together around a table with 12 symbolic plates, each representing an apostle.
Easter: Art in an Egg
During Easter, Ukraine is transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors. The pysanka, meticulously decorated eggs, are true miniature works of art symbolizing rebirth and fertility.
Ivan Kupala: Midsommar Magic Ukrainian Style
The night of Ivan Kupala is perhaps the most enigmatic celebration. This festival of pagan origin, which coincides with the summer solstice, sees young people jumping over bonfires and throwing wreaths of flowers into the water, in search of love and fortune.
Gastronomy: The Flavor of a Nation
Borsch: More than a Soup, a National Symbol
The borsch, recently recognized by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage, is much more than a beet soup. It is a dish that tells the history of Ukraine in every spoonful.
Varényky and Holubtsí: Comfort in Every Mouthful
The varényky (stuffed dumplings) and holubtsí (cabbage rolls) are perfect examples of Ukrainian cuisine: comforting, hearty and full of flavor.
Art and Culture: The Soul of Ukraine
Music and Dance: The Ukrainian Heartbeat
Ukrainian folk music, with instruments such as the bandura, and traditional dances are more than entertainment; they are the living expression of national identity.
Vyshyvanka: Embroidering History
The vyshyvanka, the traditional embroidered shirt, is not just a garment; it is a portable history book, with each pattern telling a different story depending on the region.
Social Values: The Glue that Binds Society Together
Ukrainian hospitality is legendary. The tradition of welcoming guests with bread and salt is more than a gesture; it is a statement of welcome and respect.
Architecture: Silent Witness to History
Architecture: Silent Witness to History
Orthodox churches with their distinctive golden domes, such as the Cave Monastery in Kiev, are unmistakable symbols of the Ukrainian skyline.
Léopolis: A Living Museum
The city of Leopolis (Lviv), with its well-preserved architecture, is a testament to Ukraine’s rich history and its position at the crossroads between East and West.Ukrainian culture, with its unique blend of East and West Slavic influences, remains a beacon of national identity in a globalized world. Despite historical and contemporary challenges, the Ukrainian spirit remains unwavering, preserving age-old traditions while looking to the future.
