Ivan Kupala is one of the most ancient and best-known folk holidays in Ukraine, combining pagan traditions, folk rituals, and Ukrainian folklore. Despite the passage of time, Kupala night, with wreaths, bonfires, songs, and legends about the fern flower, continues to gather thousands of people across the country.
This year, dozens of themed events are planned in Kyiv and Kyiv region — from authentic folk festivities and folklore festivals to concerts, lectures, creative workshops, and modern cultural events.
Journalists of the culture department of the Interfax-Ukraine News Agency have prepared a selection of the most interesting events dedicated to the Ivan Kupala holiday, which will take place in the capital and Kyiv region in the coming days.
June 20–21 — Kupala in Vytachiv, Kyiv region
A two-day celebration with folk songs, dances, and wreath weaving will take place in the village of Vytachiv. The organizers have also prepared traditional Kupala rituals.
Admission is free.
June 20 — DanceCulture, VDNG, KYT Pavilion
The event is dedicated to traditional Ukrainian music and dances. The program includes folk dances, live music, and an introduction to Ukrainian cultural heritage.
Ticket price: from UAH 200 to UAH 800.
June 20 — cultural and music festival “Zahrava”
Concerts, dance workshops, and performances by music bands will take place at the Kyiv space Kultmotyv.
Ticket price: UAH 1,300.
June 20–21 — Esoteric Fest, VDNG
The festival will combine live music, a fair, workshops, lectures, and charitable activities.
Ticket price: UAH 300–500.
June 21 — Kupala at the Open-Air Museum
The National Museum of Folk Architecture and Life of Ukraine in Pyrohiv will hold a celebration with workshops, a fair, folklore performances, and the recreation of traditional rituals.
Ticket price: UAH 200.
June 21 — lecture “Bawdy Folklore: Mavkas, Vampires, and Ivan Kupala”
The lecture is dedicated to Ukrainian demonology, folk beliefs, and the traditions of Kupala night.
Participation is for a voluntary donation.
June 23 — workshop on weaving Kupala wreaths
At the Mama Manana space, participants will be taught how to create traditional Kupala wreaths.
Participation fee: UAH 1,500.
June 23 — Kupailo at Mamayeva Sloboda
The program includes a fair, performances by folklore groups, and evening festive activities.
Ticket price: UAH 500 for adults and UAH 100 for children.
June 23 — “Find Yourself” event
The organizers have combined Kupala traditions with yoga, ethno music, brunch, and self-discovery practices.
Ticket price: UAH 900.
June 23 — concert by the band FOLKULAKA
A thematic concert dedicated to Ivan Kupala will take place at Pepper’s Club.
Ticket price: UAH 390–890.
June 27 — Ivan Kupala on Trukhaniv Island
Guests can expect wreath weaving, folk traditions, and an evening by the bonfire.
Admission — donation of UAH 200.
June 28 — Kupala at the Ukrainian Village Ethno Complex
A folklore program featuring the YasnoKrasno band will take place in the village of Buzova.
Admission is free.
June 28 — Ivan Kupala from students of Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute
The program includes a quest, workshops, wreath weaving, and traditional gatherings by the bonfire.
Participation is for a donation.
A detailed list of cultural events in Kyiv is also available on the ty_kyiv
ty_kyiv is the official information partner of the Open4Business website.
