Ukrainians brave the snow to celebrate their new year

Severe winter conditions did not stop Halifax's Ukrainian community from celebrating their new year, which falls on January 14 according to the Julian Church Calendar.

More than 100 people attended the event on Saturday, January 16 at the Halifax Ukrainian Club.

Bohdan Kurylak, president of the Ukrainian Association in Halifax, said: “We were a bit worried when the snow came down.

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“A lot of preparation and hard graft goes into organising this event and we didn’t want to cancel. We weren’t let down as people turned up. Those that made it had a good time.”

Entertainment was provided by the Black Sea Cossacks Band and Orylk, the nationally renowned and highly acclaimed British Ukrainian Kozak Dance Ensemble. Orylk provided a showcase of traditional Ukrainian costumes and high energy dance routines. They also performed an old theatrical puppet dance.

The community was joined in their celebrations by the Mayor of Calderdale, Coun Lisa Lambert and her Consort Mr Ken Lambert. Revellers and guests were treated to a buffet of multi-national foods and this was followed by a grand raffle drawn by the Mayor. The party continued till after midnight.

Mr Kurylak said: “We wish everyone a Happy Ukrainian New Year.”

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