Angels and Stars: A Ukrainian Christmas Soirée

Step into the embrace of a Ukrainian Christmas, where tradition, artistry, and celebration weave together in a magical evening of joy and connection. Experience the wonder of the season as we celebrate the cherished customs of Ukraine through music, storytelling, art, and cuisine.

Create and Adorn:
Unleash your creativity as you hand-paint traditional masks inspired by the Vertep, the Ukrainian Nativity play rooted in history and symbolism. Each mask is a vivid storyteller, representing beloved characters from the Christmas narrative and celebrating Ukraine’s rich folk heritage.

Sing and Listen:
Be moved by the ethereal beauty of kolyadky, Ukrainian Christmas carols that blend poetry and melody into a celebration of the season’s spirit. Whether you listen in reverence or sing along, let the music wrap you in its timeless warmth and joy.

Taste and Savor:
Indulge in the flavors of a Ukrainian Christmas with a feast of traditional holiday dishes lovingly prepared to delight the senses:

Kutya – a ceremonial blend of wheat berries, honey, nuts, and poppy seeds, symbolizing unity and abundance.
Varenyky – delicate dumplings filled with sweet or savory treasures, a holiday table favorite.
Borshch – a vibrant beet soup, its rich color embodying the warmth of the Christmas hearth.
Uzvar – a fragrant, nostalgic drink of stewed dried fruits, evoking comfort and celebration.

What is Vertep?
The Vertep is a centuries-old Ukrainian tradition that brings the Christmas story to life in a unique blend of sacred narrative and festive folk theater. Featuring masked characters, lively music, and spirited humor, the Vertep unites communities in an evocative celebration of faith, heritage, and joy. It is more than a play—it is a living, breathing tradition that bridges the sacred and the celebratory, reminding us of the beauty of shared stories.

Why Attend?
This gathering is where tradition meets the present, and art meets the heart. Through crafts, music, and culinary delights, experience the beauty of Ukrainian Christmas as we honor the past and create new memories together. Each song, each dish, and each story carries the whispers of generations, inviting you into a world of timeless spirit and connection.

RSVP & Details:
We kindly suggest a donation of $25–$75 per ticket, allowing you to contribute at a level that feels meaningful to you. For inquiries or to RSVP, visit www.artsprouts.org.

Join us for a luminous evening where the celestial dance of angels and stars illuminates the joy of community, tradition, and the magic of Christmas.