Ukrainian Community To Celebrate 30 Years Of Independence With Parade And Festival

The United Ukrainian Organizations Of Ohio marching up State Road in the Ukrainian Independence Day Parade. Photo © 2019-2021 Stefan P. Stefaniuk

On August 21st, the Ukrainian Village Committee will hold its annual Ukrainian Independence Day Parade in Parma’s Ukrainian Village. This year marks the 30th Anniversary of Ukraine's Independence! The Committee invites all to join them and celebrate this special occasion. The parade procession begins at 11 a.m. on Grantwood Drive, continues north along State Road, and ends at Ukrainian Heritage Park, located across the street from St. Josaphat Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral (5720 State Road).

This year’s parade will showcase more than 40 marching units. Parade participants will include Ukrainian church communities, Parma area social clubs, local businesses, the mayor and city council representatives, city school officials, police honor guards, Veterans organizations, floats, and more! Spirited musical numbers will be performed by local high school marching bands.

After the parade there will be a short program to commemorate the 30th Anniversary of Ukraine's Independence that will take place on the soccer field near St. Josaphat’s astrodome. There will also be a Ukrainian festival at the astrodome for all to enjoy! The festival will span two days beginning on the day of the parade. Festival admission and parking are free. It begins at 11 a.m. and will feature a beer garden, authentic Ukrainian cuisine, live music, and cultural performances. There will also be games for kids, a petting zoo, hay wagon rides, balloon twisting, face painting, and more!  

Questions? Email the Ukrainian Village Committee at ukrainianvillageparade@gmail.com.

Remember to visit UkrainianVillageParma.org and Facebook.com/UkrainianVillage to keep up with the latest news in Parma's Ukrainian Village.