On June 16, at the House of Friendship of Peoples «Rodnik», a warm and soulful meeting dedicated to the traditions of Ukrainian culture, «The History of the Ivan Kupala Holiday», will be held for the members of the «Vesnyanka» folk Ukrainian ensemble. It starts at 18:00.
A journey into the heart of Slavic culture — an exploration of the origins and symbolism of the ancient Ivan Kupala holiday, which combines pagan and Christian traditions.
You will learn about:
— the origin of the holiday: from pagan reverence for the summer solstice to the connection with the Nativity of St. John the Baptist; versions of the meaning of the name «Kupala» and its roots in Slavic mythology;
— the role of water, fire, and herbs in rituals; beliefs about the healing properties of Kupala water and the cleansing power of fire;
— the story of the fern flower — a symbol of good luck and magical abilities; tales about nature spirits that become active on Kupala night;
— traditional rituals: weaving wreaths and floating them on water (fortune-telling for destiny and marriage), jumping over bonfires as a symbol of purification and strengthening of unions, gathering herbs before dawn (nettle, wormwood, oregano, and others considered magical), and the custom of rolling burning wheels down hills as a symbol of the solstice.
You will hear Kupala songs performed by the «Vesnyanka» folk Ukrainian ensemble.
You will see elements of traditional Ukrainian costumes, jewelry, and objects used in the rituals.
You will feel the connection of times and touch the living folk culture.
