ELLENVILLE, N.Y. – The Ukrainian American Youth Association held its annual Nadiya Ye Festival here at their campgrounds on July 3-5. This year marks the five year anniversary of one of the most musically acclaimed Ukrainian festivals in North America, as well as the 60th anniversary of the “Oselia,” as the campground is known, since its purchase in 1955.
Guests from all over enjoyed a fun filled weekend with music, dance and traditional food. General Manager Andrij Stasiw, along with festival committee members, assured guests that quality entertainment would be showcased throughout the weekend and that is exactly what was provided to all.
Christina Iwanik
Natalia Dzenkiv sings for the masses.
Over 1,000 guests gathered on Friday night to listen and dance to Ukrainian techno music provided by DJ Stas, who has become a staple over the years with his high-energy mixes that captivate young audiences.
On Saturday many vendors offered Ukrainian apparel, music, crafts and artwork. The afternoon showcased the awe-inspiring Iskra Ukrainian Dance Ensemble from New Jersey, as well as several other artists and talents.
The evening festivities were the true climax of the weekend, whith over 3,000 in attendance for the performance of Lama from Kyiv. Lead singer Natalia Dzenkiv rocked the stage with her eclectic voice. This was the group’s first time performing on American soil. Ukrainian flags flew proudly throughout the crowd during the concert, showing Ukrainian American solidarity, pride and honor for Ukraine.
The audience could not get enough and cheered on for several minutes, chanting for an encore, with Lama obliging. After the performance, the audience was able to obtain autographs and purchase the band’s CDs. The evening continued with the amazing sounds of the Svitanok band, that kept guests dancing the night away.
Sunday began with a solemn morning liturgy celebrated by the bishop of the Ukrainian Catholic Eparchy of Stamford, Bishop Paul Chomnycky.
Christina Iwanik
Lama with UAYA campers.
Immediately thereafter, a memorial ceremony was organized by the Ukrainian American Youth Association and the Organization for the Defense of Four Freedoms for Ukraine, in honor of the Ukrainian soldiers, past and present, who have given their lives in the pursuit of true freedom in Ukraine and who are currently fighting against the Putin regime in the eastern lands of Ukraine.
The afternoon then continued with live musical entertainment under the pavilion.
The festival and concert weekend would not have been possible without the help of several volunteers and staff who dedicate their time to the UAYA camp and resort. Overall, the weekend was a success and preparations are already under way for next year.
Christine Syzonenko
Iskra Ukrainian Dance Ensemble performs “Bukovynski Kolomyiky.”