Ellenville, N.Y. – The Organization for the Defense of Lemkivshchyna (OOL) invites all to the 18th annual Lemko Vatra festival, which will take place on July 7-8, on the grounds of the Ukrainian American Youth Association, known as “Oselia,” in Ellenville, NY. This festival brings together individuals who wish to celebrate the unique cultural aspects of the Lemko region.
Festival events will include two days of performances by musicians, singers and dancers from the United States, Canada and Europe. This year’s featured artist will be folk singer Julia Doszna, who hails from Lemkivshchyna. She formerly performed with the band Łemkowyna and is known for such albums as “Tam na Lemkovyni” (There in Lemkovyna) and “Immigrant.”
The Lemko Vatra will also feature a History & Heritage Tent, complete with informational books, maps and on-site genealogy experts.
On Saturday, a Vatra Cup soccer tournament will be organized during the day on the Oselia sports field. That evening, guests will be able to enjoy dances with live band music both indoors and outside.
And, as always, Vatra will organize a pig roast at the start of the festival, and traditional Slavic food will be available for purchase all weekend in the outdoor kitchen.
For more information, including how to request to perform or to set up a vendor’s table, readers may contact OOL President Mark Howansky at [email protected] or visit OOL’s website, www.lemko-ool.com. For accommodation information at the Oselia, which is located on 8853 Route 209, Ellenville, NY 12428, contact 845-647-7230 or [email protected].