Valga’s “Kalynchata” Took Part in the National Food and Crafts Festival in Põlva

Valga’s “Kalynchata” Took Part in the National Food and Crafts Festival in Põlva
On 18 July 2026, the Ukrainian Society and the “Kalyna” Saturday School from Valga, both members of the Association of Ukrainian Organisations in Estonia, took part in the National Food Festival and Crafts Day in Põlva — Põlva Rahvustoidufestival ja Käsitööpäev.

The event brought together representatives of different cultures, folk artisans, creative groups, children and adults. Guests enjoyed a concert programme, traditional dishes and a wide variety of workshops.

Participants from the “Kalyna” Saturday School discovered traditional crafts, made wooden toys, whistles and small boats, wove macramé keychains, created paper envelopes and wallets, and learned how to work with birch bark, wicker and thin willow twigs.

For the children, the trip was an opportunity not only to acquire new creative skills, but also to socialise, make new friends and experience the atmosphere of a shared celebration. The vivid impressions of the event inspired Kateryna Dmytryshyna to dedicate a poem to the trip:

Together we came to Põlva with cheer,
Where a joyful folk festival welcomed us here.
Valga’s “Kalyna” arrived full of delight —
For wherever there is creativity, the celebration is bright!

The performers on stage were truly first-rate,
And applause filled the hall again and again.
Dancing, singing, smiles and inspiration
Gave everyone a wonderful celebration.

The workshops were a marvellous sight,
Bringing children and adults pure delight.
Some made wonderful toys out of wood,
While others carved colourful puzzles as well as they could.

Whistles and boats were made by hand,
Making children and parents equally proud.
The girls mastered macramé with skill,
Weaving fashionable keychains together with goodwill.

Envelopes and wallets were folded from paper,
And everyone became their own designer.
Birch bark, wicker and slender willow strands
Turned into beautiful baskets in skilful hands.

Hair clips and tableware — a beautiful sight,
Eyes shone like morning dew in the light.
The craftspeople shared their knowledge from the heart —
Moments like these are golden works of art!

The “Kalynchata” all said together:
“What a wonderful, joyful and powerful day!”
We created, laughed and gathered new strength,
Then returned home in a wonderful mood.

Wise people do not say in vain:
Creativity reveals new wonders every day.
The extraordinary is close, right by our side —
We only need to look a little more carefully.

Our heartfelt thanks to Ms Astrid for her care and warmth,
For her hospitality, generosity and human kindness.
For a day that filled our hearts with joy
And inspired us all towards new achievements!
The Ukrainian Society “Kalyna” sincerely thanks the festival organisers for the invitation, as well as Astrid Orq for her care, for organising the trip and for providing the opportunity to take part in the celebration.

The participation of Ukrainian organisations in Estonia’s cultural events helps represent the Ukrainian community, supports intercultural dialogue and creates an environment in which children can develop, communicate and maintain their connection with Ukrainian culture.