Stroud staged its first Vyshyvanka Day on Saturday, an event that aims to preserve Ukrainian folk traditions of creating and wearing embroidered vyshyvankas.
The event started with a parade from St Laurence Church, led by Stroud Samba group Simbora, which made its way around the town with marchers carrying a 30-metre-long Ukraine flag, and many wearing vyshyvankas. After returning to the church there were music and dance performances, starting with Acapellies performing traditional Ukrainian songs, before being joined by members of the Ukrainian community on stage.
Other performers included Svetlana; Stroud Morris; Tatiana; Taras, Melania and Solomiya; Downfielders; Kolo, Ukrainian School; Bandura Group; and Katya.
The event was jointly organised by Stroudwater Textile Trust, Stroud Stands with Ukraine, and Cotswold Canals Connected. There were opportunities for youngsters to try Ukrainian jigsaws, candle making, embroidery cards and cabin lace. There were displays of tradition Ukrainian dress as well as a tradition Gloucestershire agricultural smock.
Pictures and video by Matt Bigwood
