Ukrainian Unity Day
On January 22nd in the Ukraine, people celebrate a holiday known as National Unity Day or Ukrainian Unity Day. This day commemorates the day in 1919 when the Unification Act was signed by the Ukrainian People’s Republic and the West Ukrainian People’s Republic. This was done on January 22, 1919, at Saint Sophia Square in Kyiv.
Ukraine (Observance)Although this day is a state holiday, it isn’t a public holiday and as such, businesses have normal operating hours. This is a day when people come together to express unity, attend concerts or other festivities, or take part in demonstrations and/or political protests.
The History Of Ukrainian Unity Day
The purpose of the Unification Act was to create a unified Ukrainian state, but it was regarded by most people as being mainly symbolic. Both governments continued to maintain their own structure, train their own armies, and run their own administrations.
The day’s strong symbolism, however, allowed it to be used for this holiday—a holiday that falls on the date the Unification Act was signed by both sides.
Interesting Facts About Ukraine
Let’s dig into some Ukrainian facts. Ones that we found while doing the research for this holiday.
- It’s still traditional to weave using handmade looms in some parts of the Ukraine.
- Ivana Kupala Day is observed on June 23rd every year.
- The national costume of the Ukraine is the Vyshyvanka.
- Borsh is a popular Ukrainian dish, as is Varenyky.
- The average life expectancy in the Ukraine is 71.4 years.
Observing Ukrainian Unity Day
On this day, people all over the country raise the Ukrainian flag, lay wreaths and flowers on monuments, and listen to political speeches. People also take part in festivals, parades, and concerts that are held on this day. And of course, some people use this day as a holiday to protest or to stage demonstrations.
Ukraine (Observance)
