Ukrainians in UAE celebrate ‘Rizdvo’ with traditional event in capital
Gathering at Umm Al Emarat Park included customary songs and craft workshops for children and families
The Ukrainian community in Abu Dhabi gathered to celebrate Christmas with a festive event on Saturday.
The gathering in Umm Al Emarat Park involved cherished traditions, workshops, carols and activities for the whole family.
Rizdvo – Ukrainian Christmas Day in the Park – took place from 4pm to 8.30pm, highlighting the rich cultural tapestry of the country. Rizdvo is the Ukrainian word for Christmas.
Children met Santa, known in Ukraine as Sviatyi Mykolai. They also decorated treats, enjoyed Ukrainian Christmas songs, participated in craft workshops and took in all the festive fun.
“Rizdvo is not just a Christmas celebration, it is a journey into the heart of Ukrainian traditions,” said Yevheniy Semenov, 29, a Ukrainian resident of Abu Dhabi for more than 10 years and vice president of the Ukrainian World Congress.
“Attendees enjoyed a magical experience filled with joy and laughter, as well as a chance to participate in various activities that showcase the beauty of Ukrainian customs,” said Mr Semenov. Between 15,000 and 20,000 Ukrainians are believed to live in the UAE, he added.
“From crafting traditional Christmas spiders and dolls to enjoying the melodic tunes of ‘koliada’ [festive songs], every element has been created to provide a truly authentic experience,” he said.
Ukrainians are marking a second Christmas since Russia’s invasion of the country in February of last year.
Also on Saturday, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the nation, beginning by wishing Ukrainians good health in the lead-up to Christmas.
This year, the country is formally celebrating Christmas on December 25, having previously marked the occasion on January 7.
The move from the Julian calendar, which Russia uses, to the western Gregorian calendar, represents a continued cultural shift.
Mr Semenov said that, while the situation in Ukraine this December is not as severe as it was last year, it is important to remember there is a war going on at home.
“We need to keep our traditions and culture and preserve them,” he said. “That is what people in Ukraine are dying for.
“Rizdvo is an opportunity to create lasting memories, share in the warmth of the season and embrace the magic of Ukrainian traditions.”
This year, Ukraine is formally celebrating Christmas on December 25, having previously done so on January 7