August marks one of the most important holidays in the Ukrainian calendar – Ukraine’s Independence Day. A state holiday celebrated on August 24 in commemoration of the Declaration of Independence of 1991, it marks Ukraine’s independence from the Soviet Union as it restored its rightful sovereignty. Ukrainian diaspora communities around the US plan festivals, parades, and concerts to mark this day. In this month’s #RazomRecommends we highlight some of these events in various states – we hope you’ll consider attending a gathering near you to meet the Ukrainian community and learn why this holiday is so important – especially during the full-scale invasion.
23 August 2025| Lakewood, CO
The Colorado Ukrainian Festival
A celebration of 34 Years of Independence with Ukrainian culture, food, music, and community. The all-day event will feature performances – including a special guest Oleh Skrypka, authentic Ukrainian cuisine, local vendors and artisans, family-friendly activities, and community connection.
🔗https://www.ukrainiansofcolorado.org/events/s5hf11vov4zh6wh47z6v9xk0lknc7t
23 August 2025| Phoenix, AZ
Unbroken: Evening Honoring Ukraine’s Independence Day
A meaningful gathering to reflect on Ukraine’s enduring spirit, honor its path to sovereignty, and celebrate the resilience and support of our community. The evening will include delicious Ukrainian-inspired bites, a silent auction benefiting humanitarian aid through the Ukrainian Arizona Foundation, and community updates on local efforts committed to supporting Ukraine during this critical time. This is a ticketed event.
🔗https://www.cactusandtryzub.com/events/unbroken-ukrainian-independence-day
23 August 2025| West Palm Beach, FL
Ukrainian Cultural Fest
The Fest returns for its third year in a row, and will include live performances, art workshops, kids fun zone, arts and crafts market of handmade goods, and lots of authentic Ukrainian cuisine to sample and purchase. The event is free to attend.
🔗https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ukrainian-cultural-fest-tickets-1475253395619
23 August 2025| Raleigh, NC
Ukrainian Independence Day Festival
The event in Raleigh consists of two parts. The first part is a free festival with Ukrainian music and folk dancing, traditional cuisine, and a tour of the Ukrainian School of Raleigh. The second part is a concert of the famous Ukrainian artist Oksana Mukha benefitting Revived Soldiers of Ukraine.
🔗https://www.eventbrite.com/e/raleigh-nc-oksana-mukha-charitable-concert-tickets-1507757546409
24 August 2025| Washington, DC
Ukraine Independence Day Rally
The capital’s event centers around a rally and a march, followed by a concert featuring Ukrainian music, poetry, and dance, as attendees come together to honor Ukrainian Independence. Guests will assemble at the north side of the White House, hear official remarks and a musical interlude, and then march to the Taras Shevchenko Memorial where the main concert will take place.
🔗https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dc-celebrates-ukraines-independence-day-tickets-1425700652029
24 August 2025| Sacramento, CA
Ukraine Independence Day Celebration
All are welcome at this free event that honors Ukrainian heritage, celebrates cultural diversity, and fosters a sense of connection. The gathering will provide an opportunity to connect with community leaders, explore local and international resources, experience powerful national anthems, and hear moving performances from special guests and civic leaders. The event will be concluded by a headline performance by KAZKA, the internationally acclaimed Ukrainian electro-folk-pop sensation.
🔗https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ukrainian-independence-day-tickets-1531230063339
24 August 2025| Indianapolis, IN
Ukraine Independence Day Social
A free event in partnership between the Ukrainian Society of Indiana and Bier Brewery Noblesville. Community members are invited to enjoy food, mingle, and help raise funds for the charitable causes supported by the Society in Ukraine.
24 August 2025| NYC
24.FREEDOM – A charity immersive performance
The event will reflect freedom through music, movement, song, dance, and visual art. Main element of the event — large scale bird installation, as a symbol of resilience, flight, and freedom. To honor the fallen. To inspire the living. Performances by Pavlo Ginta, Alex Pryrodny, Fima Chupakhin, Valeriia Vovk, Angelina Statyeva, Hanna Datsko, Markiian Krysa, Maksym Lozynskyj, Dumka chorus, and others. All proceeds from the evening will go toward life-saving supplies for Ukrainian defenders.
24 August 2025| Chicago, IL
Ukraine Independence Day Parade
Similarly to DC, this event will focus on a public march along Chicago’s main street in honor of the 34th anniversary of Ukraine’s independence. Gathering begins at 2:00 PM at Congress Plaza Garden, and the march will conclude with a program at the western end of the Riverwalk.
🔗https://ukrainianchicago.com/event/ukrainian-independence-day-parade-in-downtown-chicago/
