Brisbane’s incredible Ukrainian Festival is back for its fifth edition on Saturday, August 23 and, as ever, it’ll be a day filled with moving art, fascinating culture and tradition, exquisite food and, of course, heaps of fun from 11am to 5pm!
Held the day before Ukrainian Independence Day, the festival offer the opportunity for Queenslanders to soak up everything that this special culture has to offer, such as traditional folk-dance performances by local ensembles set to classic Ukrainian music, which will bring Ukraine’s rich history to life through
movement, and market stalls where you can shop unique Ukrainian goods, including handmade jewellery, intricate hand-painted Pysanky Easter eggs and more!
As always, the culinary offerings will be one of the best parts of the festival, with hearty Ukrainian culinary classics like savoury banderyky (crepes filled with chicken and served with a rich mushroom sauce), holubtsi (tender cabbage leaves rolled in a filling of seasoned rice and meat, baked in a light tomato sauce until perfectly tender), and bograch (a hearty Hungarian Ukrainian goulash-style stew with chunks of beef, vegetables and paprika).
Or, if you’re looking for something in the light and fresh category, delicious salads will also be on offer like olivier salad, a creamy potato salad with peas, eggs, pickles and ham or a simple — though no less tasty — cabbage and cucumber salad, finished with a splash of vinegar.
There will also be fun-filled activities for the little ones in your life, including face painting, dancing and other entertainment, so you can make a day of it with the whole family!
Most importantly, Queenslanders will be able to show their support for the affected people of Ukraine, five years after the start of the war. As Peter Bongiorni, President of the Ukrainian Community of Queensland Inc. said, “We can’t wait for Southeast Queenslanders to soak up all we love about our Ukrainian culture and spirit – the warmth, creativity, and depth and richness of Ukraine’s culinary heritage.
“It’s been a very devastating and uncertain time for our people, but the continued love we’ve had from communities like Brisbane gives us hope and support for the tens of thousands who’ve been displaced or affected. We hope more people than ever come along and enjoy an incredible day out for everyone!”
Although admission is free, donations are appreciated and all help will go towards supporting The Ukrainian Club Queensland’s work including aiding displaced Ukrainians settling in or relocating to Queensland.
Practical information
Be sure to RSVP on their Facebook event page and keep up with updates!