site.btaUkrainian FEST Marks Ukraine’s National Day in Sofia

The Ukrainian FEST is taking place in front of the Ivan Vazov National Theatre and in the City Garden in Sofia to mark Ukraine’s National Day on Sunday. The event is organized by the Educational and Integration Centre Ukrainski Vulik (Ukrainian Hive) and Sofia Municipality.

At the festival, Ukrainians showcase traditional products and crafts from their homeland. The selection includes scented candles and soaps, plush toys, knitted dolls, and handcrafted jewellery. Items in the colours of the Ukrainian flag are also available.

Irina Sardareva creates hats using materials such as seagrass and banana peel. She has lived in Bulgaria for nearly 50 years, having moved for her husband, Petar Sardarev. Previously a chemistry teacher, Sardareva now makes hats with the support of Petar and their son, Georgi. She considers hat-making an act of self-love and aims to inspire Bulgarian women to appreciate themselves more.

She wished her homeland peace and love on this day. “We are a peaceful people, and Bulgarians are our brothers,” she said. Displaying one of her hats, she explained, “This is an authentic general’s hat to which I have attached a Ukrainian garland. I say ‘No to war.’”

For the fourth year since the war began, Sofia Municipality has supported the celebration of this day, according to Yulianna Kuliukina, manager of the Educational and Integration Centre Ukrainski Vulik (Ukrainian Hive). Kuliukina, who has lived in Bulgaria since 2016, explained that bringing together Ukrainian refugees and those who arrived before the war allows them to share their culture and traditions. She noted that the festival provides an opportunity for Ukrainians and Bulgarians to connect.

Ukrainian songs are played at the festival, and the event also features dance performances.

The main building of Sofia Municipality is scheduled to be illuminated in the colors of the Ukrainian flag later this evening, according to the Sofia Municipality press service.

The Reference Department of BTA reports that Ukraine’s independence was declared by the Supreme Council (Parliament) on August 24, 1991, and confirmed by a referendum on December 1, 1991.