Toronto hosts largest Ukrainian festival in North America

The largest Ukrainian street festival in North America, the Bloor West Village (BWV) Toronto Ukrainian Festival, is taking place in Toronto, Canada, from September 15 to 17, as reported by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC).

The event, aimed at showcasing Ukraine’s rich culture, traditions, history, and the contributions of the Ukrainian diaspora to the development and growth of Canada, is being held for the 28th consecutive year. Organizers also sought to highlight Ukraine’s battle against Russian occupiers.

Each year, the Festival attracts up to half a million visitors from across Canada, the U.S., and beyond, according to the event’s website. This year, Canada’s Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland, along with fellow government officials and MPs, also attended the event.

“The largest Ukrainian street festival in North America takes place right here in Toronto! It was great to meet so many people who help keep our community vibrant and our traditions alive,” Freeland wrote.

The BWV Festival was founded in 1995 to showcase the most prominent aspects of Ukrainian culture in Canada, including music, food, visual arts, and dance. The event features renowned musical groups, prominent opinion leaders, and politicians.