UKRAINIAN refugees taking shelter in Southampton have welcomed in the orthodox new year in a party full of food and music.
The event, at St Boniface Hall in Shirley, was also a late celebration of Christmas and saw a visit from the Lord Mayor of Southampton.
It featured poem recitals from a group of children as well as traditional Ukrainian food and music for guests to enjoy.
Svitlana Sichkar, 36, one of the organisers of the celebrations on Saturday, shared how glad she was of the high turn-out.
She said: “I was very happy to see so many people came to gather, even though it was a little late for orthodox Christmas we still could celebrate in a similar way we do it in Ukraine.
“It’s a great chance to communicate and to have fun with our kids or even some family time. Parents may be busy during the day."
READ MORE: Ukrainian and Southampton families host celebration at city's pub
She added: “We’re also so honoured to have such a guest at our party today, it’s not every day when you can have the mayor playing with the kids so we’re very thankful for all of those who supported us in this.”
Olena Alksandrovy, 35, had mixed feelings about the festivities.
She said: “On one side people are grateful there is a possibility to escape and for children to have normal school. At this time in Ukraine there is no electricity, no hot water, so much destruction. So one side is the possibility of having their lives back.
“On the other side, it’s very challenging as there is still a culture difference, such as the times kids go to bed. It’s about adjusting to the culture here.
“And also, some still have family in Ukraine.”
The Mayor, Cllr Jacqui Rayment, highlighted the importance of celebrating the different cultures that come in Southampton.
She said: “Whether they're long-term or short-term residents, I think it’s really good that we uphold some of the Ukrainian traditions, just like we would for any culture that settles in Southampton.
“So for me to be here today, to celebrate with them on what is a very special day for them as they see out the old calendar and see in the new, I think it’s really important.”
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