Masnytsia at VDNG

The winter was long, but its time is drawing to a close. We are ready to bid it farewell with a loud, warm, and authentically Ukrainian celebration. As the "Winter Country" at VDNG concludes, a grand Masnytsia festival begins, dedicated to our cherished folk traditions. Admission is free.

Over the course of two days, the air will be filled with "vesnianky" and "haivky" (traditional spring songs). Visitors can enjoy folk rituals, dance workshops, and performances by folklore ensembles. It is more than just fun—it’s an opportunity to dive deep into the customs that have shaped Ukrainian culture for centuries.

Ancient Masnytsia traditions will be brought to life:

• The "kolodka" ritual and traditional folk games;

• Symbolic farewells to winter and the calling of spring;

• A vibrant ethno-space decorated with straw, ribbons, and thematic photo zones.

A Feast for the Senses: Food courts will serve "nalysnyky" (crepes), "varenyky" (dumplings), and other traditional dishes with a variety of fillings.

The program also features a lecture series on Ukrainian customs by the "Vytoky" project at Book Space. The ritual performances will be led by the singer and bandurist Bohdana Onopchuk.

The celebration will culminate in the spectacular burning of the winter effigy — a symbolic farewell to the cold and a joyful welcome to the spring!