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Our
History |
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The
idea for a Ukrainian Festival in Dauphin was suggested at a meeting
of the Dauphin Chamber of Commerce and from there a founding group in
was in place in 1965. They were given a box of letterhead and five dollars
worth of stamps to start with. A constitution was drawn up and some
general guide lines were set forth. One important guideline was that
the festival should reflect Ukrainian culture as it is in Canada, thus
making the festival a national Ukrainian Canadian event The words "Canada"
and "National" were to be included in the name of the festival. The
logo was to be the Trident with the word "Bitaemo". The festival was
to become an annual three day event with the hope of establishing a
Ukrainian Village some time in the future. A great challenge lay ahead, as there was no model for the group to copy. The first order of business was to get entertainers for a grandstand performance that included Ukrainian dance groups, Ukrainian choirs, orchestras, and soloists. Many long hours were spent informally around the kitchen table brainstorming, adapting and revising plans. Interested persons were sought out to assist in filling the Dauphin Curling Rink with interesting and informative exhibits. Committee chairpersons were in place and pioneers were interviewed for further information. The Dauphin Rural Municipality offices not only became the meeting place, but were also a valuable source of historical information about the surrounding rural areas. The Manitoba government Department of Tourism supported this project and gave us valuable guidance. Ideas needed to be generated to hold this three day event and would be modified to suit the overall theme. The timing of the event also provided ideas for celebrations. Harvest or "Obzenky" celebrations which occur at the end of August resulted in the idea of having an official host and hostess for the event. Hence, a Hospodar and Hospodynia were selected. Dance and other competitions were organized to interest youth. Again, the tasks were separated into units with a committee chairman taking the responsibility for research and creation of suitable events. A celebration such as the festival held in Dauphin is very appropriate because of the historical evidence in the area. First, the population of the area is largely of Ukrainian descent. Secondly, the Cross of Freedom and St. Michael’s Church provide the basis for the Sunday celebrations. Thirdly, there is the Ukraina Post Office which reopens each year at the festival. Also included were the commemorations held at Keld. In other words, Dauphin has the history to support the festival. In addition, there was excitement and anticipation for Canada’s 1967 Centennial and the 1970 Manitoba Centennial which gave incentive for suitable projects nationwide. There was much anxiety among the public about the festival’s success. Members of the festival board had the task of building and sustaining morale. Fortunately, the festival was a huge success thanks to the many performers who willingly offered their talents. A large number of volunteers contributed time and effort far beyond the call of duty. Thankfully the weather was sunny and warm. This is how it all began…a framework for succeeding Festivals was accomplished. What was only an idea has blossomed into the magnificent project it is today. The first festival was presented in 1966 at the Dauphin Agricultural Centre and today the Selo Ukraina site has become home to the 45 year old festival. |
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