Kyiv turns 1,544: how the capital is celebrating City Day
This was reported by the Kyiv City State Administration.
According to the official version, Kyiv was founded in 482 by the brothers Kyiv, Shchek and Khoryv and their sister Lybid. The city was named after the eldest brother, Kyiv. Kyiv Day was first celebrated in 1982 to mark the capital’s 1,500th anniversary. Since then, it has traditionally been celebrated on the last Sunday in May.
How Kyiv is marking City Day during the war
The Kyiv City State Administration has announced that, due to the security situation, large-scale city-wide celebrations have been cancelled this year. Instead, dozens of local cultural, artistic and sporting events have been organised for residents and visitors to the capital. An exhibition entitled ‘The Unbreakable City’ has opened at the ‘Zoloti Vorota’ metro station, showcasing works by students and lecturers from the ‘Universum’ College. The ‘Kyiv’ arts prize will also be awarded as part of Kyiv Day celebrations, as is tradition.
What events are taking place in the capital
Over the weekend, the city is hosting:
- a folk art fair at the Ivan Honchar Museum;
- the "Song over the Dnipro" international choral art festival and competition;
- creative events in Holosiivskyi Park;
- the cultural and artistic event “Uzviz of Unity” on Andriivsky Uzviz.
The festive programme is complemented by open-air concerts. Carillon music rings out on the grounds of St Michael’s Golden-Domed Monastery, whilst creative groups and young performers take to the stage in the city’s parks and squares.
Charity run and sporting events
One of the main sporting events of Kyiv Day is the traditional charity “Run Under the Chestnut Trees”. The capital is also hosting competitions in:
- kickboxing;
- rowing;
- beach handball;
- the Truhaniv Tennis Cup.
In addition, free guided tours have been organised for Kyiv residents and visitors. Museums and libraries have prepared themed exhibitions, creative meetings and masterclasses dedicated to the history and cultural heritage of the capital.
The Kyiv City State Administration has issued a reminder of safety rules
The city administration emphasised that all events are being held in accordance with safety requirements. In the event of an air raid alert, participants must immediately proceed to the nearest shelters.
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