You are invited to attend a special evening to experience the culture, art, music and cuisine of Ukraine, and it’s Christmas traditions – and to show your support for its people during the country’s endurance of invasion by Russia.
This magical event on Thursday (19 December) will offers guests a unique opportunity to experience the warmth, creativity, and resilience of the Ukrainian community.
It is free to attend – but you must register for a ticket first, which you can find out more about below. It will be held at Picturehouse Cinema in Filmworks Walk, central Ealing.
The event, ‘Only a Miracle’, has been organised by Ealing & Hounslow Community Voluntary Service (EHCVS) with the support of Ealing Council’s Ealing Homes for Ukraine programme, and is aimed at helping to integrate new communities and promote cultural understanding. You can find out more about the programme on the council’s website.
What will be on offer?
The evening will feature live Ukrainian Christmas carols and music and festive food, traditional Ukrainian straw decoration exhibition, and a special screening of a film titled ‘Only a Miracle’.
This film, produced by KAZKA Production and directed by Olena Karetnik , is a heart-warming Ukrainian winter fantasy. The film will be shown in Ukrainian with English subtitles.
There will also be dance performances from the Dash Dance Studio, and photo opportunities with Father Christmas.
And, from 18 December until 10 January you can visit Ealing Picturehouse Cinema which is displaying a sculpture of the Didukh – a symbol of Ukranian Christmas. This installation was crafted by Ukrainian children in the borough under the guidance of art teacher Emanuela Marcu.
‘A celebration of togetherness’
Deputy Lieutenant Richard Kornicki CBE, the King’s representative in the borough, is due to attend the event, along with council representatives and other local organisations.
Olga Dudnik, the Ukraine volunteering and engagement co-ordinator for EHCVS, said: “Following the success of our summer event, MAVKA: The Forest Song, we received overwhelmingly positive feedback.
Local residents shared their appreciation for learning about Ukrainian culture, while the Ukrainian community found joy in sharing their heritage and feeling at home.
“In 2024, we’ve worked tirelessly to build an active and sustainable community. With the creation of the Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) BRIDGE for Ukrainians (Bringing Resources, Integration, Development, and Growth in Ealing), we are ensuring a lasting support system. This Christmas event is a celebration of togetherness.
“Organised with the help of dedicated volunteers, it showcases the best of Ukrainian music, art, and traditions, promoting cultural diplomacy in action. Together, we are building a more inclusive and cohesive community in Ealing.”
The Ealing Homes for Ukraine initiative aims to create a sustainable Ukrainian community in the borough by fostering a sense of belonging and cultural pride among refugees, essential for their long-term well-being.
Event details and tickets
• Date Thursday 19 December
• Time 6-9:30pm
• Venue Ealing Picturehouse, Unit 8, Filmworks Walk, London W5 5FA
• Register for free tickets online
