News from the Ukrainian National Museum

Volume 4 Issue 30 | August 8, 2024

Chicago Celebrates Ukrainian Heritage Month

On August 1, 2024, Chicago opened Ukrainian Heritage Month with a flag-raising ceremony at Daley Plaza. This event, attended by local officials, and members of the Ukrainian community, marked the start of a month-long celebration dedicated to honoring Ukraine's culture and its people.

Mayor Johnson declared August a Ukrainian Heritage Month, emphasizing Chicago's support for Ukraine and its people. The proclamation recognized Ukraine as a symbol of freedom and democracy and praised the bravery of its citizens. The event included the performances of the Ukrainian and American national anthems.

Throughout August, various cultural festivals and events will take place every weekend, celebrating Ukrainian music, dance, art, and cuisine. One of the highlights will be a human chain demonstration on August 24, commemorating Ukraine's Independence Day. This month-long celebration aims to foster unity and showcase the rich heritage of the Ukrainian community in Chicago.

Current Exhibit

NOT ALL OF THEM: Portraits of War Refugees

A photography exhibit by Lithuanian photographer Antanas Sutkus, Artūras Morozovas and Tadas Kazakevičius, organized by the Consulate General of Lithuania in Chicago, together with the Consulate General of Ukraine in Chicago, and the Ukrainian National Museum. This exhibit highlights human stories and the importance of continued support for Ukraine and its fight for shared values of freedom, sovereignty, and democracy.

Special thanks to the exhibition supporters: the Embassy of Lithuania to the United States, Unlimited Carrier Inc., Antanas Sutkus Photography Archive, Strong Together, and the Lithuanian Culture Institute.

CHICAGOLAND MUSIC FESTIVAL 1930

Diving into the archival treasures of the Ukrainian National Museum, we see that August was always marked with Ukrainian festivities in the "melting pot" of Chicago.

Chicago's first music festival took place on August 23,1930. Ukrainians won the championship!

It was a well-known choir under the direction of Yurii Benetskyi. The event was grand. Stands were crowded, with people even watching the show from their cars.

The opening at Soldier Field held 150,000 people. Participating in the event were 21 orchestras, 16 drum bands, a festival orchestra, and a choir of 1000 singers. Fireworks were part of the grand finale. The Ukrainian choir was unrivaled. Ukrainian bands held the lead for the following two years.

The Music Festival in Chicago was one of the most popular events in the XX century for 40-50 years. Lollapalooza, the current summer music festival, is believed to be a successor of this Music Festival of the 1930s.

Museum archivist Halyna Parasiuk.