Vyshyvanka Day at IvAlive: A Celebration of Culture, Unity, and Heritage

On May 15, a special atmosphere filled our IvAlive Educational Development Center — warm, vibrant, and full of inspiration. We celebrated Vyshyvanka Day, a day that honors Ukraine’s cultural symbols while reimagining traditions in a modern way.

For the IvAlive Foundation, preserving Ukrainian identity in Switzerland is one of our core missions. That’s why this day held such special meaning for us. Every embroidery, every pattern, every stitched cross tells a story. Through these symbols, we don’t just remember our past — we feel connected. It’s a bond that’s cultural, emotional, and stronger than borders.

Together with ethnographer Vira Ostashchuk, we explored the deeper meaning of the vyshyvanka — as a guardian talisman, as a form of self-expression, as a symbol of the Ukrainian spirit. While the adults reflected and learned, our youngest guests created handmade felt keychains with the help of our talented teacher Iryna Shevchuk.

And of course, there were treats — delicious homemade pancakes, lovingly prepared by our team and guests, added the perfect flavor to the evening.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us. Because of you, Ukrainian traditions are not just preserved — they’re growing, adapting, and becoming a part of everyday life, even far from home.

We can’t wait to welcome you again at the IvAlive Center.

📸 Photos and videos from our Vyshyvanka Day celebration are available here:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ITTAY65eujw29JodDcN4rOFn71gInreD?usp=sharing