Celebrating 2024: Ukrainian Christmas Event in Ealing

On 16 December 2024, the Ukrainian community in Ealing came together for a magical evening of culture, tradition, and togetherness. Organised in partnership with EHCVS and the Ealing Council, and hosted at the charming Ealing Picturehouse, this festive celebration titled “Only a Miracle” marked not only the Christmas season but also a significant milestone in our community’s journey.

Guests were warmly welcomed with the traditional Ukrainian food, live music, carols, and heartfelt hospitality from our volunteers – many of whom helped organise the event and took part as performers. The programme featured piano and vocal performances, family duets, children’s dance groups, and original music inspired by themes of sanctuary, heritage, and resilience. Among the performers project leader Olga Dudnik, and many talented Ukrainian artists and children now living in the UK.

We were honoured by the presence of Richard Kornicki CBE DL, the Representative Deputy Lieutenant for the London Borough of Ealing and patron of BRIDGE for Ukrainians, as well as Councillor Blerina Hashani, a valued supporter of displaced communities and cultural inclusion in the borough.

A highlight of the evening was a special screening of the Ukrainian winter fantasy film “Only a Miracle”, generously provided for free by the Ukrainian State Film Agency and Kazka Production, with warm holiday greetings from its director and screenwriter Olena Karetnyk.

More than 200 guests attended the event, supported by over 25 volunteers. It was also the perfect moment to highlight one of our biggest milestones of the year – the launch of our charitable organisation, BRIDGE for Ukrainians. Our mission is to create a strong foundation for Ukrainians in the UK, promoting integration, well-being, and success.

This evening reminded us of the beauty and strength of Ukrainian culture – and of the unity that continues to grow in our new home.