Ukrainian Independence Day in Calgary is celebrated every year on August 24 with large-scale events organized by the city's Ukrainian community. In recent years, these celebrations have become one of the largest Ukrainian cultural events in Canada, bringing together both long-established members of the diaspora and newly arrived Ukrainians.
Ukrainian Canadian Congress – Calgary The Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) – Calgary Branch is the main organizer of Independence Day events. This umbrella organization represents all Canadians of Ukrainian descent and coordinates the activities of numerous Ukrainian organizations in the city.
The Calgary Ukrainian community has over 30 active organizations, including:
Date and location: August 24, Ukrainian Pioneer's Park
2024: over 3,500 visitors
Program:
Four hours of performances on the main stage
Food fair with traditional Ukrainian cuisine
Children's entertainment and activities
Booths of local Ukrainian organizations
Photo zone for family pictures
Beer garden with Ukrainian beer
Location: corner of 7th Avenue and 6th Street NE, next to the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Admission: free
Date and time: August 24 at 12:00 p.m., Municipal Plaza
Participants: Mayor of Calgary, city council members, representatives of Ukrainian organizations
2023 speakers:
Mayor Jyoti Gondek
Councillor Terry Wong
President of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress Dr. Danylo Musienko
Iryna Moroz (organizer of the “Victory Towel” initiative)
Summer 2022: Concert as a means of healing and unity during war
Participants:
Stefania Romaniuk (mezzo-soprano)
Ukrainian choir “Pereveslo” (conductor Kateryna Saxon)
Local Ukrainian musicians and dance groups
Date: Every June (2025: June 7–8)
Location: Acadia Recreation Complex
16th annual festival:
Two stages: Kyiv and Lviv
Ukrainian cuisine and crafts
Children's area and photo zone
Ukrainian market
Beer garden with Ukrainian beer and vodka
Ukrainians of Calgary Association (UOCA):
$100,000 spent on medical supplies
$150,000 in donations delivered
Catholic churches:
Fundraising through the Diocesan Fund
Collection of non-perishable food and clothing
Organization of prayer services