Ukrainian Sunflower Festival Photos

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Photos from the 2004 festivities in Warren, MI

Ukrainian Sunflower Festival of Detroit, Aug. 25 - 27, 2006

Looking for a fun Ukrainian-American festival this summer? Consider the 20th annual Sunflower Festival to be held Aug 25 - 27, 2006 on the St Josaphat Church grounds on Ryan road in Warren, Michigan.

My relatives always enjoys the activites of the festival including live music, dancing, traditional craft demonstrations, and lots and lots of fresh Ukrainian food - varenyky, holubsti, kovbasa, tortes, etc. all made and served by women of the community. There are also rides and games for kids, bingo for the older folks, and Ukie kitsch for all.

I hope to hear the local Detroit band the Polish Muslims play their brand of funky ethno-folk-rock. I have not seen them in years. I'm also interested in hearing Ephyra, a Ukrainian-American rock band from Chicago. According to the band's web site, their "sound is one that consists of modern, progressive rock with a flavor of traditional Ukrainian influence." Could be good!

For a full festival schedule and entertainment line-up, check out the official Sunflower Festival web site.

Wonderful Photos of Ukraine #1

Stefan, who writes the blog Dykun, has some wonderful photos posted of a modern Hutsul wedding. (I think the photo of the trio is stunning.) Take a peek. Check farther down in his blog and in the archives for some authentic video of traditional village work.