Refugees celebrate Ukrainian heritage at weekend festival

POCATELLO – Local refugees celebrated their heritage at Pocatello’s second Ukrainian Festival over the weekend.

It was held on Saturday from noon to 3 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church. This festival comes as the war approaches its third year in Ukraine. Many individuals who performed at this event have been displaced from their homes.

Ukrainian refugees in Pocatello have been integrating into the local community with the help of various support systems and cultural celebrations. The Ukrainian Welcome Center is one organization involved in helping refugees find housing, employment and other essential services. Community events, such as the Ukraine Festival, have also played a significant role in fostering a sense of belonging and cultural pride. These events provide opportunities for refugees to share their heritage and connect with locals, creating a supportive and inclusive environment.

Saturday’s event had a silent auction, with numerous gift baskets and prizes donated from businesses and individuals in the area. There was Ukrainian food that many people tried. There were a lot of people who found the food unique but tasty. For some, it wasn’t their favorite.

Ivan Kirilenko played the accordion for the crowd. His family’s home was destroyed by an errant missile. They have been living in Idaho Falls for the last 18 months. Unable to bring his accordion with him, a good Samaritan heard of his talent and donated one.

Vlad Horbachev became a one man band and played some electric music he mixed on stage. He’s only been in Pocatello for about six months, but used to play and write music. He now owns Kazak USA, a business that makes knife-sharpening devices for customers.

Sajar Jörgenson, who used to play in a rock band in his native country, translated the song “Hallelujah” into Ukrainian and sang it for the crowd. He’s been in Pocatello for about a year and a half.

The other performers at the event were the Angel Tones, the Celtic band Rune Stone, the Pocatello Women’s choir “Reflections”, Bryndon Belnap, and the Narodnaya International Folk Dancers.

Members of Angel Tones performing in Saturday’s Ukrainian Festival. | Emily Thornton, EastIdahoNews.com

It’s not clear how much money was raised during the event, but the 2024 event raised more than $11,000 for Ukraine. Southeast Idaho has raised almost $200,000 to date, allowing for lights, food, clothes, and aid to be sent to those still living in Ukraine.

Lena Contor is grateful to Bridges Idaho, Neighbor Works, generous sponsors and numerous volunteers for their help in making the festival a success.