Krayoviy Zdvyh 25 – Celebrating 100 Years of CYM: A Weekend Bursting with Ukrainian & CYMivsky Spirit!

From Friday 4th to Sunday 6th July 2025, Tarasivka in Derbyshire came alive as over 2,600 CYMivtsi from across the UK and members of the wider Ukrainian community gathered for Krayoviy Zdvyh 25, marking an incredible milestone — 100 years of CYM.

Krayoviy Zdvyh 2025 - Highlight Reel

The weekend offered so much more than just performances. Families and friends camped under sunny skies, creating a true festival vibe and a chance to soak up every moment from dawn to dusk. The site buzzed with Ukrainian food vendors serving delicious favourites, a vibrant Ukrainian Bazaar selling crafts, clothing and treats, and the brand-new CYM History Exhibition, which transported visitors through decades of photos, uniforms, and memorabilia. People wandered through the exhibition marvelling at old tabir beds, vintage polo shirts and T-shirts, and the stories that connect generations of CYMivtsi.

The official opening ceremony was a moving highlight. Prayers were offered by chaplains from the Ukrainian churches in the UK, grounding the celebrations in faith and unity. The Mayor of Derby, His Right Worshipful Councillor Ajit Singh Atwal, spoke passionately about the importance of youth, unity, and continuing the work for Ukraine. Podruha Anna Fedeczko, Chair of CYM GB, shared heartfelt words reflecting on CYM’s incredible journey over 100 years and inspired everyone to look forward to the future with hope and determination. In a particularly touching moment, oak seedlings were symbolically passed from past CYM GB chairs and honoured guests to the younger generation, a powerful gesture representing the continuation of CYM’s mission into the next century.

As the weekend unfolded, Tarasivka pulsed with music, dance and vibrant energy. Performances from CYM Oseredky from across the country lit up the CYMivsky Stage, showcasing the incredible talent, passion, and cultural pride of our youth. From the lively dances of Podilya and Hoverla to the beautiful vocals of Fiyalka, each performance drew cheers and applause. It was truly a sight to behold — embroidered costumes swirling, music echoing across the fields, and faces beaming with pride.

For the first time ever, a second stage was introduced, bringing even more music and excitement. Community groups showcased the talent of Ukrainians in the UK, whilst bands like Topolya, Desna, Verkhovyna, Cov Kozaks and Shelest brought their unique sounds, while DJs Coniak, DJ NZ, Stefan Fedeczko and Ange kept crowds dancing late into the night. The atmosphere was electric — people singing along, dancing under the stars, and celebrating Ukrainian culture in all its forms.

This year also saw a beautiful milestone: Oseredok CYM Edinburgh returned to the Krayoviy Zdvyh stage after 41 years, a moment that drew emotional applause and reminded everyone of the enduring spirit of CYM.

Throughout it all, the weather was glorious, with sunshine and blue skies adding to the joyful, festive atmosphere. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many attendees calling it one of the most memorable Zdvyhs ever.

Thank you...

An event like this is only possible thanks to an army of dedicated people. We want to say a huge thank you to:

• The National Executive Committee, whose planning made every detail come together

• The CYM Oseredky, for taking an active part in the day and in the planning of their performances

• Volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes — from decorating and preparing Tarasivka, preparing and running the History Exhibition, keeping the site clean, and managing arrivals and working the bar

• The technical teams and MCs who kept both stages running smoothly and full of energy

• All the incredible performers — from Oseredky groups and community acts to bands and DJs — who poured their hearts into every performance

• The Ukrainian Bazaar vendors, who brought colour, flavour, and tradition to the event

• Our VIP guests and dignitaries for joining us and sharing their inspiring words

• And of course, each and every participant and family who came to celebrate this milestone with us!

Relive the Memories...

Couldn’t make it, or want to relive the best moments?

• A photo gallery capturing the weekend’s highlights is currently being compiled on our website. View Here!

• A YouTube playlist featuring performances and special moments from Krayoviy Zdvyh 25 is being compiled on the CYM GB YouTube channel — perfect for re-watching your favourite acts! View Here!

Looking Ahead...

We’re already excited for Krayoviy Zdvyh 26, returning on the first weekend of July 2026. After such a historic centenary celebration, we’re ready to step boldly into the next 100 years of CYM — together!