Ukrainian festival marks 60 years of culture, resilience

DAUPHIN — From rhythmic dances to the aroma of traditional cuisine, the 60th anniversary of Canada’s National Ukrainian Festival was a “dazzling celebration of heritage and resilience” over the weekend at the historic Selo Ukraina site just south of Dauphin.

Spanning three days, the landmark event featured live entertainment on three stages, cultural exhibitions, an amateur talent competition and activities for all ages, drawing crowds from across Canada and even the United States.

Attendees were immersed in Ukrainian culture through music, food folklore and vibrant costumes — a fitting tribute to the festival’s six-decade legacy, secretary Livia Johnson told the Sun at the site on Sunday.

“We have five grandstand shows, a full pavilion with vendors and more children’s activities than ever before,” she said. “It’s the biggest version of this festival we’ve had and the turnout has been incredible.”

One of the highlights was the amateur talent competition. According to Johnson, the competition is a cherished tradition that features dancers as young as six performing in various age groups and styles, representing different regions of Ukraine.

“They enter as solos, duets, trios or group dances,” said Johnson. “The competition brings in a wide spectrum of talent, and the kids love representing the regions.”

Serving as adjudicator for the competition was Kaitlyn Kruk, a Ukrainian-Canadian dancer and educator who now lives in Ukraine and teaches movement to children near the front lines of the war.

“Our dancers are amazing. Ukrainian dance fuses folk traditions with ballet techniques, and this community never ceases to impress,” Kruk said. “This festival is about more than medals — it’s about pride, resilience and the connection to our culture.”

Having danced for nearly 27 years, Kruk says the weekend was not just a professional experience, but an emotional one.

“I return to Ukraine next week,” she said. “What I’m taking back is all the love, light and hugs I’ve collected here — it’s fuel to keep going and remind our people that they’re not forgotten.”

Among the standout performers was the Benito Vesselli Dance Club.

The group took top honours at the competition, instructor Amanda Bulycz told the Sun.

“They received a score of 92 — a gold — and won first place among all the groups,” she said. “That earns them a $750 prize and an invitation to perform on the main stage next year.”

For Bulycz, the win was a testament to the dancers’ dedication, despite busy teenage schedules.

“Many of them work jobs or play sports, so sometimes our rehearsals are at 9 p.m. on Fridays,” she said. “But they’re passionate and committed. I’m extremely proud of them.”

While the festivities were upbeat, the war in Ukraine was not far from the minds of attendees. But rather than dampen the mood, it brought greater meaning to the weekend.

“We’re still thinking of the war in Ukraine, but this weekend is about showcasing the beautiful culture, the food, the dancing, and being united,” Johnson said.

Kruk echoed that sentiment, calling the festival a “testament to our resilience.”

“Despite everything, we are still here — dancing, celebrating, sharing our culture. No one is going to take that away from us,” she said.

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