Thousands gather for Ukrainian Independence Day in Edmonton

Hundreds gathered at the Alberta legislature for Ukrainian Independence Day on Sunday.

Thousands gathered at the Alberta legislature Sunday to celebrate Ukraine’s 34th year of independence.

Orysia Boychuk, president of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress – Alberta Provincial Council, said the event was full of pride.

“It’s a bittersweet time because obviously Ukraine is still at war defending its freedom,” Boychuk told CTV News Edmonton.

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She said the festival was a way for them to support the soldiers on the front lines.

“We’re eternally hopeful that it will come to an end soon.”

The festival had live performances by Ukrainian dance and music ensembles as well as cultural showcases and community exhibits from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the south bandshell.

“We’re pretty thrilled to be able to share our culture, our food and our community with everybody here and the rest of the world.”

With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Dave Mitchell