Vyshyvanka Day in Minsk

Belarusian vyshyvanka is a traditional ornament incorporating many ancient symbols. Vyshyvanka Day is celebrated on the eve of Independence Day. Vyshyvanka ornamentation is used to decorate clothing and household items. However, there is more to it than just embellishment. Each element of the pattern has a certain meaning and sends a certain message. Our ancestors believed that these patterns can serve as a talisman protecting people from evil and bringing them joy. Vyshyvanka comes in a variety of forms and shapes, however one thing remains unchanged: red ornament (red symbolizes the sun) against the white background (white symbolizes purity). By the way, it was not until late 19th century that traditional patterns embraced new colors: black as the background and blue and yellow as the ornament.  

The colorful Vyshyvanka Day in Minsk displayed the whole set of national flavors. People could enjoy the national dishes in the Belarusian Karchma tavern, get the taste of the Belarusian language in the literary lounge, tour an exhibition of authentic rural tourism estates and acquire an ornament amulet in the Rodnyia Uzory (National Ornaments) pavilion. Little ones could engage in Belarusian national games, attend master classes from folk artists, watch a puppet show from the Batleika theater and go wild in the open-air playground Kraіna Dziatsіnstva (Land of Childhood).

The atmosphere of Vyshyvanka Day was created by a flash-mob Vyshyvanka for Everyone. Visitors were offered to try on clothes in national colors. Belarusian designers also contributed to the atmosphere with the catwalk show dubbed as Wreath of Beauty. The event wrapped up with a concert headlined as Belarus is the Source of Inspiration.

Vyshyvanka Day, the festival of the Belarusian identity and folk culture, in our photo essay!