January 5, 2012 by shaneward
Across North America, Americans & Canadians of Ukrainian origin celebrate Malanka or Malanckyn Vechir, the New Year’s Eve celebrations, on January 13 according to the Julian calendar. It falls one week after Christmas Eve, January 16th by the same calendar, and is an occasion which, with the exception of the religious note of Christmas, resembles it in several ways.
While Christmas is an entirely religious occasion, Ukrainian New Year’s Eve has maintained more of its pre-Christian secular, pagan beliefs. In particular, those pertaining to the supernatural and animalistic.
The celebration of Malanka symbolizes the beginning of Spring being released from captivity and on her arrival bringing the flowers and greenery to life again. In North America it is traditional for Ukrainian organizations to celebrate Malanka with a banquet and a dance.
Speaking of Malanka! Check this out.
As we mentioned before the Ukrainian Oldtimers are @ Stan’s Place in Saskatoon on January 13th for a Ukrainian Malanka and now Stan wants to throw a Wild Ukrainian New Years bash on Saturday January 14th!
Yes a two day event Jan 13/14 at Stan’s Place with the Ukrainian Oldtimers
What a blast it will be, so come one come all and join the Ukrainian Oldtimers in bringing in New Year’s Ukrainian style.
For more information contact Stan’s Place (306) 665-9000