1. Introduction
For want of a better title, this page is here to share information on a variety of Ukrainian cultural topics, especially where members have had first-hand experience. Items of interest from across the globe relating to Ukrainian culture, heritage, and community life are gathered here for the benefit of Ukrainian Islanders and the wider diaspora.
Prince Edward Island may be small, but its Ukrainian community has maintained strong cultural ties to their heritage, keeping traditions alive through music, language, and community gatherings.
2. Muzika i Knyshky — Music and Books
Music Recordings
Dot Com Recordings in Toronto specializes in contemporary Ukrainian recordings and offers a wide selection of Ukrainian music for purchase. They are an excellent resource for anyone looking to connect with Ukrainian musical heritage.
Paris to Kyiv — Since 1980, Canadian singer and culture maker Alexis Kochan, along with her ensemble Paris to Kyiv, has been rediscovering ancient Ukrainian music and bringing it to new audiences. Their performances blend traditional folk elements with contemporary arrangements, creating a bridge between the old world and the new.
The ensemble has played a vital role in preserving Ukrainian musical traditions that might otherwise be lost, performing at festivals and cultural events across Canada and internationally.
Ukrainian-Language Books
For those seeking Ukrainian-language literature, there are dedicated publishers and bookshops that cater to the diaspora community. Ukrainian books cover everything from classic literature to modern fiction, historical texts, and children’s stories that help younger generations connect with their linguistic heritage.
3. Ukraiinska Shkola — Ukrainian School
The Ukrainian Genealogy Group PEI has organized monthly Ukrainian language classes to help community members and interested learners develop their Ukrainian language skills. These classes serve several important purposes:
- Preserving the Ukrainian language in the diaspora community
- Connecting younger generations with their heritage language
- Building community bonds through shared learning experiences
- Supporting genealogical research by developing language skills needed to read original documents
Contact the Ukrainian Genealogy Group PEI for information about current class schedules and registration.
4. Novyny — News
E-Poshta Weekly Newsletter
E-Poshta is a comprehensive weekly review of Ukrainian news and events in English from around the world. It is published weekly and provides an invaluable connection to the global Ukrainian community.
The newsletter covers:
- Ukrainian community activities across Canada and internationally
- Cultural events and festival announcements
- News from Ukraine and the diaspora
- Historical commemorations and community milestones
- Resources for Ukrainian heritage preservation
E-Poshta has been an important link for Ukrainians scattered across the globe, helping them stay connected to their cultural roots and community. For those interested in current affairs and cultural developments in Ukraine, this overview of Ukrainian society and culture provides regular insights and analysis.
5. Important Dates for Ukrainian Islanders
Several key dates mark the Ukrainian calendar and are celebrated by communities across Prince Edward Island and Canada:
- Ukrainian Independence Day — August 24th
- Saint Nicholas Day — December 19th: gifts for children
- Christmas Eve (Holy Night) — January 6th
- Malanka (New Year’s Eve) — January 13th
- Feast of Jordan / Epiphany — January 19th
- Velykyi Den’ (Easter) — varies by year following the Julian calendar
These dates provide opportunities for the community to come together, celebrate shared heritage, and pass traditions on to the next generation.
6. Historical Context
The Ukrainian presence on Prince Edward Island and in Atlantic Canada is part of the larger story of Ukrainian immigration to Canada. The first Ukrainian settlers arrived at Montreal on September 7th, 1891, and from there spread across the country.
Key historical milestones:
- 1817 — First Ukrainians enter Manitoba as mercenary troops in Lord Selkirk’s hired Swiss de Meuron Regiment
- 1891 — First Ukrainian settlers arrive at Montreal
- 1891-1914 — Major wave of Ukrainian immigration to the Canadian prairies
- Early 1900s — Ukrainian communities established across Atlantic Canada
The Ukrainian community has enriched Canadian culture through their traditions, cuisine, arts, and strong community values. From the prairies to the Atlantic provinces, Ukrainian Canadians continue to celebrate and preserve their heritage.
7. Getting Involved
The Ukrainian Genealogy Group of Prince Edward Island welcomes all who are interested in Ukrainian heritage and culture. Whether you are tracing your family roots, learning the Ukrainian language, or simply curious about Ukrainian traditions, there are many ways to get involved:
- Attend monthly meetings and cultural events
- Participate in Ukrainian language classes
- Contribute family histories and genealogical records
- Share cultural knowledge and traditions with the community
Additions, corrections, suggestions, and links are always welcome. Contact the group at uggpei@lomatski.ca to get involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dot Com Recordings in Toronto specializes in contemporary Ukrainian recordings and is a great resource for Ukrainian music in Canada. Additionally, artists like Alexis Kochan and her ensemble Paris to Kyiv have been performing and recording traditional Ukrainian music since 1980.
The Ukrainian Genealogy Group PEI has organized monthly Ukrainian language classes (Ukraiinska Shkola). Contact the group for current schedules and registration information.
E-Poshta is a comprehensive weekly review of Ukrainian news and events in English from around the world. You can subscribe to receive weekly updates covering Ukrainian community activities, cultural events, and news from the global diaspora.
Paris to Kyiv, led by Canadian singer Alexis Kochan since 1980, is one of the most notable groups rediscovering and performing ancient Ukrainian music. They blend traditional folk elements with contemporary arrangements.
