Ukrainian Vyshyvanka Day is a bright and patriotic holiday. It is marked on the third Thursday of May. On 18 May 2023 Ukrainians will again put on their vyshyvankas and show what makes them unique. Below we tell the story of the holiday and the traditions Ukrainians keep around the world.

The history and traditions of the holiday

On 18 May 2023 Ukrainians will put on national dress — embroidered shirts, dresses, skirts, T-shirts and so on. The holiday beautifully reflects the unity of the Ukrainian people, as well as the wealth and traditions of Ukraine's history. 

The history of Vyshyvanka Day

The first Ukrainian Vyshyvanka Day was organised in 2006 as an initiative. A Ukrainian student, Lesia Voroniuk, of the faculty of history, political science and international relations at Yuriy Fedkovych Chernivtsi National University, together with other students and lecturers, put on Ukrainian vyshyvankas. In this way they decided to support traditional Ukrainian clothing and honour their national culture, instilling in the younger generation a love for their own heritage. The occasion grew beyond a national into an international one, as Ukrainians living outside their country mark the day in countries around the world too.

The holiday and its traditions in today's circumstances

Given today's circumstances, namely the ongoing war, there will be no parades, fairs, concerts or other mass events in Ukraine on Vyshyvanka Day. In the countries that continue to support Ukraine in this difficult time, however, various flash mobs, fairs and concerts will take place. These events will show the identity and national unity of all Ukrainians. Many show business figures also continue to appear in public in Ukrainian national dress by Ukrainian brands, and that gives enormous support to Ukrainians everywhere.

Vyshyvanka Day in countries around the world

In 2023 in Poland (Warsaw), Vyshyvanka Day will be combined with Kyiv Day. The celebration is planned for 27 May. Everyone is welcome to take part. As part of the holiday there will be fairs in the city centre, a concert, a virtual tour of Kyiv and embroidery workshops.

In the Czech Republic (Prague), Vyshyvanka Day has been marked since 2016 with a march through the streets of the city in embroidered shirts, a concert programme, entertainment for children and others, workshops and embroidery competitions. This year the organisers have prepared a four-day programme for residents and visitors, so the celebration will run from 18 to 21 May.

​In Germany (Frankfurt), Vyshyvanka Day will traditionally be celebrated on 27 May at Waldspielpark Schwanheim. The organisers invite residents and visitors to bring food and drink and enjoy the company and the entertainment for children. In support of Ukraine you can wear Ukrainian national dress and bring a Ukrainian flag.

If you are outside Ukraine at the moment, do not forget that you are Ukrainian. Support your people and remind everyone of your identity. Find out from local sources what events are planned for Vyshyvanka Day in the city where you live. Let us stay united!