July 4 celebrated American-style in Kyiv (07/19/98)

July 4 celebrated American-style in Kyiv

KYIV - The U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine organized a Fourth of July picnic in Kyiv at the Spartak Stadium. Approximately 1,000 persons arrived to take part in the festivities, among them U.S. Ambassador Stephen Pifer and his wife, Marilyn (seen in the photo on the left). The event was open to the public, but most of the attendees were Americans, primarily expatriates, employees of the U.S. Embassy and Peace Corps volunteers. As seen in this photo report, the picnickers listened to a jazz performance by a Kyiv band; enjoyed a barbecue featuring good ol' American hamburgers, hot dogs, baked beans, potato salad, etc.; and played volleyball and Frisbee. There were special treats for children, too, such as face-painting and myriad games. The party overflowed onto the streets of Kyiv as revelers dressed in red, white and blue waved American flags to passers-by.