Tullamore community celebrates Ukrainian Independence Day
Both the Irish and Ukrainian communities in Tullamore came together last Sunday to celebrate Ukrainian Independence Day.
The event, organised by Offaly Local Development Company in partnership with Offaly Volunteer Centre and Offaly County Council, was held on Sunday, August 23, in Lloyd Town Park, Tullamore, to mark the 35th anniversary of Ukrainian Independence.
The celebration brought together more than 300 people from the Ukrainian and Irish communities for a special afternoon of culture, music, friendship and celebration.
The event celebrated Ukrainian Independence Day and Ukrainian State Flag Day, while providing an opportunity for the Ukrainian community to share its rich cultural heritage with the wider community in Offaly.
Throughout the day, visitors enjoyed a programme of live music and performances, traditional Ukrainian crafts, cultural displays, children’s activities, Ukrainian food and community entertainment. Ukrainian traditions and heritage were showcased through embroidery, traditional clothing, Petrykivka painting, pysanky, traditional ornaments, traditional Ukrainian dishes and other cultural exhibits.
Declan Harvey, Cathaoirleach of Offaly County Council, was present on the day to help make the celebration a special occasion for the Ukrainian community.
A highlight of the celebration was the opportunity for Ukrainian and Irish community members to come together through music and dance.
The event featured performances by local musicians, as well as the Chorus Connection Community Choir, led by Michelle Quinn and Gemma McGuinness. The choir also performed a Ukrainian song together with members of the Ukrainian community, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere and celebrating the friendship between the Ukrainian and Irish communities.
The Ukrainian community also presented a traditional korovai (ceremonial bread) as a symbolic gesture of friendship and gratitude to members of the Irish community and those who have supported Ukrainians in Offaly.
The organisers thanked Deirdre Fox and the team at Offaly Volunteer Centre, whose volunteers played an important role in supporting the event, as well as Offaly County Council and its Integration Team for their valuable support and collaboration.
The organisers also thanked Kieran McEvoy for his invaluable support throughout the preparation and delivery of the event. Kieran played an important role in helping with the organisation and preparations, and also captured the spirit of the day through an incredible professional photoshoot, providing the community with wonderful memories of the celebration.
Offaly Local Development Group said the event was "a wonderful example of how communities can come together to celebrate culture, build connections and create a sense of belonging".
Offaly Local Development Company looks forward to continuing to support the Ukrainian community and to creating further opportunities for Ukrainian and Irish communities to connect and celebrate together.