The main state holidays of Ukraine

In Ukraine, a lot of celebrated and beloved holidays. Their emergence was influenced by the state structure, features of economic development, religious traditions. Every Ukrainian holiday is special, there is a part of a long history in it. State and religious holidays in Ukraine are very original.

Events preceding the birth of the holidays

Ukraine's historical chronicle dates back to the 9th century. It was then that the emergence of the state of the Eastern Slavs, which was preceded by the union of principalities. Thanks to this, the most powerful European state - Kievan Rus was formed. Ukrainian holidays are very connected with the history. Since the XI century, Rus survived the invasion of the Mongol-Tatars and became part of the Commonwealth.

For many centuries the Ukrainian nation and culture were being formed. Many sources mention Ukraine as a state. Some of them say that the word "Ukraine" is derived from the "outskirts" of Europe. There are also other versions, but for the time being neither the time of occurrence nor the etymology has been established.

In the XVII century, the liberation struggle was fought against the Polish principality, as a result of which the Zaporozhian Sich was formed and the new state - the Hetmanate. Soon she went under the control of the Moscow monarchy.

At the end of the 18th century some Hetman lands became part of the Russian Empire. For many years the Ukrainian nation was formed. It was formed under the influence of many neighboring states. The history is very rich, so there are many traditions. That's where the national holidays of Ukraine take their roots. All citizens of this country should be interested in them.

State holidays of Ukraine (2017)

After the collapse of the USSR, Ukraine, like many other republics, gained an independent status. This event was recorded at the end of August, and since then, traditionally, the Independence Day is celebrated on the 24th . Throughout the country there are various celebrations, recently a parade of troops is being organized in Kiev. This day is non-working.

On June 22, 1996, a new constitution was adopted in Kiev. Therefore, this day became the base for celebrating the Day of the Constitution of Ukraine. If the holiday falls on the Sabbath or Sunday, the day off is postponed to the first working day.

Most recently in Ukraine, began to celebrate the Day of the defender of the country. This was preceded by events in the Donbass, where military operations are under way. It is celebrated on October 14 and is a non-working day. This significant day honors the dedication and courage of the defenders of the united and indivisible Ukraine. It also coincides with the great Orthodox holiday - the Protection of the Holy Virgin.

Cossacks have always considered the Mother of God to be their helper and intercessor, and therefore it is no coincidence to congratulate the military on this particular day. This is the main public holidays in Ukraine.

Holidays of the Soviet era

The state holidays of Ukraine in 2017 will not do without such events: New Year (January 1), March 8 - everyone's favorite women's day, May Day (May 1). These holidays were introduced in the USSR.

Religious holidays

Ukraine extends far from west to east and from south to north. There are both steppe and mountainous areas, as well as the sea. The population here is multinational, but still the main part is made up of Ukrainians. Many of them visit Orthodox churches, some - Catholic, as well as many Protestants. The calendar of state holidays in Ukraine includes such events as Christmas (January 7), Easter (April 16, 2017), Trinity (from 3 to 5 June).

Holidays, worthy of attention

State and religious holidays in Ukraine are not all days off. There are many events that are celebrated every year, but are not red days on the calendar. Nevertheless, you need to know the days of public holidays. Ukraine also notes the following events:

• Day of Ukrainian Council of Ukraine (January 22). It is celebrated in connection with the merger (zlukoy) of the two republics: the Ukrainian People's and the Western-Ukrainian. This event occurred in 1919 in the town of Fastov and became a kind of symbol of the unity of all regions. The signing of such an agreement embodied in reality the dreams of the Ukrainian people about state sovereignty.
• International Mother Language Day (21 February). Many languages of the world today are under threat of extinction, therefore the native language should be protected. Not everyone knows about this holiday, but it draws public attention to the need to protect different cultures.
• Environment Day (April 16). The surrounding nature and its condition are the most important components of the ecological direction. Ukraine supports all initiatives to save the environment and nuclear safety. Every year, various events are held to celebrate this day.
• Day of Europe in Ukraine (the third Saturday of May). This holiday demonstrates the desire of Ukrainians to get closer to European countries. In different cities of Ukraine, organize exhibitions, presentations, which popularize European culture.

The ceremonial feast of Ivan Kupala

This day is celebrated on July 7 and is remembered for its special poetry. A long time ago, even before the emergence of Christianity, it was customary to read Kupailo (the Sun). The main events of this day take place in the evening. There is a very interesting rite for this holiday. Girls and guys dress up in national Ukrainian clothes, put wreaths of wildflowers on their heads, light fires near reservoirs, dress a willow, which is a symbol of this day. In the end, all comers jump over the fire. In love couples this promises an early wedding, and the rest - good health.