Ukrainian Cultural Society Celebrates Malanka and 40th Anniversary
Not only was it Malanka, the Ukrainian new year’s celebration, but a milestone marking the 40th Anniversary of the Fort McMurray Ukrainian Cultural Society. The local Ukrainian community came together for both celebrations on January 18, 2020 at Shell Place with 370 people in attendance.
Malanka is a traditional Ukrainian, Belarusian, and Russian folk holiday celebrated on January 13. Guests enjoyed performances from the Avrora Ukrainian Dancers group, and traditional Ukrainian food. MLA Laila Goodridge attended, and presented a congratulatory memento on the group’s anniversary; along with Councillor Mike Allen.
Lee-Anne Kumka, President, Fort McMurray Ukrainian Cultural Society and Avrora Dance Group thanked everyone for attending and appreciated the group’s volunteers for the successful event.
“Our membership is made up of about 30 families, and everyone comes together to volunteer their time so the evening is a success. They organize, ensure all the dancers have costumes, provide silent auction items, and look after all the details to present a fabulous event. Our two instructors Vasyl Kanevets and Kasia Brytan teach us to be amazing dancers. Adding to the fun this year was that we had a number of former dancers and alumni join us to celebrate the 40th Malanka,” Kumka shared.
Congratulations to the Ukrainian Cultural Society.
Photos: Greg Halinda Photography
