Rizdvo at the
ROM – Ukrainian Heritage DayRizdvo at the
ROM – Ukrainian Heritage Day
By Katya Pelesz
Dancing, fine
cuisine and family bonding were all the essence of Ukrainian Heritage Day at
the 
organized by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress – Toronto Branch, now an
annual celebration which brings the Ukrainian community together, focusing on
family and the continuation of Christmas traditions.
The anticipation of
Ukrainian Heritage Day was certainly evident, as people were lined up outside
the ROM in the freezing weather, waiting to get inside. Upon entering the
museum, a gallery of hand-painted artwork was readily on display. Featured were
a wide range of artists from professionals to t
hose who simply have a passion
for art. These artists displayed their works on canvasses arranged in the shape
of the traditional star, a vital symbol of Ukrainian Christmas, with most works
containing intricate designs of icons done in each artist’s specific style.
These works are to be auctioned to raise money for charities supporting
children affected by the tragic Chornobyl nuclear disaster.
Next on the day's schedule
was Ukrainian cuisine within a Christmas theme. The Food Studio and the dining
sections of the museum took initiative to prepare foods such as kutya and sauerkraut varenyky – “perogies”. It certainly
was pleasant to see families gathered together to enjoy a meal, and other
family oriented activities that occurred throughout the day. One of these
activities included a work station set up for arts and crafts, where children
and their parents could create greeting cards and star-shaped posters to take
home. Ukrainian-theme scavenger hunts were also organized for families to race
around the museum in search of answers to win prizes, while learning more about
Ukrainian history and culture.
1 – Orysia Tracz
2 – Ukrainian Academy of
Dance;
3 – Christmas arts and
crafts children's workshop