Calgary’s Unique Ukrainian Fun Spots
Our friends from the Ukraine are making a positive impact on our multicultural city. Their colourful way of life and open, friendly nature shows us how the human spirit can keep warm even in the coldest times. With their delicious foods like perogies, the beautiful art of their pysanky (Easter Eggs), and dancing the hopak, we see a world full of vibrancy and wonder.
Calgary’s Ukrainian Festival happens this year on June 1st & 2nd at the Acadia Recreation Complex. It includes performances, food, arts & crafts and the finest Ukrainian beer and vodka. There is even an “After Hours: ‘Zabava” event. More info at: Calgary Ukrainian Festival
Luckily, here in Calgary we can experience what the good people of this country have to offer us. There are several local businesses where you can enjoy some special treats, see some beautiful art or performance, and enjoy some warm hospitality year-round.
Here are such businesses to visit sometime:
Ukrainian Coffee House
Fresh and delicious dessert? Lattes that are plentiful? Yes please! Or if you are just looking for a lovely lunch that includes a salad and a sandwich this is a great place to stop in for a bite. It is in the heart of downtown and easy to find. So, if you are in the neighborhood, stop in for a cup of their honey hazelnut latte, and a salmon croissant sandwich. And if you are feeling decadent, they also have fondue. Editor Note: I love the Medovik honey cake.
755 5 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 0N2 Link: Ukrainian Coffee House
Heritage Bakery & Deli
The best borscht in the city is found here! When it is a cold and cloudy day, comfort food like this borscht and a few of their potato and cheddar cheese perogies will warm you right up. They have 10 different flavours of perogies, at least 3 different kinds of cabbage rolls, and cottage cheese crepes called nalysynky that is good for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or dessert. Which ever dish you decide to eat there, you will leave happy. 1912 37 Street SW, Calgary, AB T3E 3A3,
Link: Heritage Bakery/Deli
Kalyna European Food Market
Crafted with care and the heart of tradition, each dish is a feast for the senses. Kalyna is famous for their paska which is a cake that the Ukrainian people like to bake for Easter. But don’t worry, they too believe that cake is best served all year long. They do a lot of catering and want to create an authentic Ukrainian feast for anyone who wants to partake. 7400 Macleod Trail #8, Calgary, AB T2H 0L9.https://www.kalynastore.ca/
Polimark Ukrainian Fine Food
It is not just a restaurant, shop, or catering business but also a food truck. They have also been in business for over 30 years. They have a wide variety of frozen products if a person needs to do some cooking in the kitchen. Don’t forget to grab some poppy seed rolls and potato/dill filled perishky. They are truly mouthwatering. 540 Cleveland Crescent SE, Calgary, AB T2G 4R8.
St. Vladimir’s Ukrainian Orthodox Sobor
A church, museum, gift shop, and resource centre all in one. Those who are looking to connect with this particular culture or learn more about it, this is the best place to get some information. They also try to find a way to help those in the Ukraine in various ways from housing to education. A truly good cause and proof that community is important to them. 404 Meredith Rd NE #1, Calgary, AB T2E 5A6, https://www.stvlads.com/
Vykrutas School of Ukrainian Dance
Have you ever wondered how the Ukraine has a good time? A joyous way to find out is visiting one of the classes or recitals of the Vykrutas Dance Society. Watch as a round dance turns into a twirling metelitsa or jump into a hopak dance. It is amazing the skill and talent one has to have to do these dances whether they are professional or amateur. 4005 9 St SE, Calgary, AB T2G 3C7.
Ukrainian Canadian Congress
A place where there is a wealth of information. Those who are looking to learn more about their traditions and heritage can easily do so thanks to this organization. They let you know what events, businesses, and classes a person can take that is all related to the Ukraine. They look to promote local businesses, assisting Ukrainian immigrants, and educate others in the community. Ukrainian Youth Centre (CYM Domivka), 409 Ninth Ave NE, Calgary, AB, Canada T2E 0V9
Link: Ukrainian Youth Centre
Last Word
It is true that those in the Ukraine are not having the best time right now but at least we have gained some wonderful new friendships. We have a window into all the good things that they have to offer. The people prove that love and friendship bring better things than war and hate any day. Ypa (cheers)!